ISSUE FOCUS FEED & ADDITIVE MAGAZINE May 2023 31 nutritional value and extend the shelf life of grains and raw materials. BLENDED BENEFITS Because the antimicrobial effectiveness varies between organic acids, applying a blend of acids is recommended over applying simple blends or even single acids. Each acid has its optimal pH that enables undissociated molecules to effectively penetrate and deactivate harmful microbes. The mode of action deployed by different acids explains why carefully selected blends show a significantly higher impact on microbial reduction when compared to simple blends or single acids. Buffering acids not only makes them safer to handle, but also allows for the slow release of acids, creating a long-lasting effect. IMPORTANCE OF APPLICATION TECHNIQUES Selko's expertise and knowledge of grain management coupled with its portfolio of innovative products applied through tailor made dosing equipment supports grain producers, storage facilities and feed processing plants. As part of its service package, Selko assists with identifying critical control points, sampling, and analysis to allow for the most effective solution and inclusion. Once these are identified, state-of-the art dosing equipment can be installed to ensure safe, effective, and even distribution of products. Depending on the type of storage facility, systems can be installed at the receiving pit or transportation lines for accurate product application. Selko developed its Continuous Dosing System (CDS) with a particular focus on the needs of grain and raw materials treated with liquid products. The CDS provides fully automatic and safe dosing, optimum dividing, as well as controlled and measured inclusion rates. IN CONCLUSION Proper storage management practices are essential to maximising grain storage life. Preventing losses during storage, both quantitative and qualitative, comes down to three main areas: 1. Understanding the local situation and implementing storage management practices such as regular inspection, maintenance, and cleaning of the storage facilities 2. Applying effective storage techniques, such as aeration, avoiding over filling the storage area and preserving grains with organic acid blends 3. Regular monitoring and quality checks to detect issues and introduce interventions early, to prevent financial impact While no one can predict the future with certainty, implementing a holistic approach to preserve and protect grain offers a long-term strategy to minimise losses, maximise grain availability, optimise quality and help feed the future. About Pieter Steyn Pieter Steyn is Selko's commercial technical manager for the Raw Material Quality Programme. In his current position he provides technical and commercial support to internal teams, as well as customers around the globe. He has a passion for safe feed production, with a focus on feed ingredients and raw materials. Originally from South Africa, Pieter gained his experience through various sales- and technical positions within the agricultural industry in that region. For the past three years he's residing in the Netherlands and has been traveling around the world, while sharing and expanding his knowledge and experience in effective grain preservation. Figure 1. Reduction of microbial counts in grain muesli 7 days after treatment with Fylax Grain compared to a control (inclusion rate: 1 kg/t)
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