Feed & Additive Magazine Issue 43 August 2024

ARTICLE 74 FEED & ADDITIVE MAGAZINE August 2024 “The synergy of ingredients should always be considered when formulating effective feed safety solutions. For example, the specific metabolic and absorption properties of different acids may affect other ingredients. Individual organic acids exert different properties and can have varying acidic values. The complexity of this situation demands a comprehensive, multi-action approach that is capable of defending against a range of mould species commonly found in feed and feed ingredients.” Selko scientists and researchers at Westerdijk Fungal Biodiversity Institute in the Netherlands are shedding new light on the processes that inhibit mould in animal feed. Findings from their experiments explain how ActiProp, a synergistic proprietary combination of ingredients designed to curb microbial growth in feed, affects mould cell integrity. Researchers applied multiple biomechanistic models to examine the kinetics that can affect cells’ mitochondria and directly impact energy generation and other metabolic processes. ActiProp treatment relies on a blend of different acids along with a buffering agent, moisture management and phytochemical components to deliver a broad-spectrum strategy for combatting moulds. The multi-year research collaboration conducted at one of the world’s largest biodiversity institutions confirms the antifungal mode of action used by Fylax® Forte-HC liquid with ActiProp® technology. Part of the Selko feed safety portfolio, the product works to inhibit mould growth in animal feed. Findings from the research were recently published in the International Journal of Food Microbiology. REAL-WORLD CONDITIONS AND ADVANCED TECHNOLOGY UNCOVER NEW INSIGHTS Microbial threats are an ever shifting and persistent threat in raw ingredients, feed production facilities and grain storage environments around the world. It is well-known that the presence of moisture is a risk factor for moulds to form and proliferate. In experiments conducted at Westerdijk Fungal Biodiversity Institute, scientists isolated Aspergillus chevalieri from moulded feed originating from different continents and countries. As a xerophilic mould, Aspergillus chevalieri can proliferate under low water activity (aW), and even when storage conditions meet a high grade of quality. Researchers developed an optimal growth model closely mimicking conditions commonly experienced in livestock settings, imposing a strong challenge for testing Fylax ForteHC liquid with ActiProp technology. SAFER FEED FOR SAFER FOOD: A model reveals how synergistic ingredients inhibit conidia growth and reproduction in animal feed Pedro Caramona Category Director Feed Safety & Quality Selko Feed Additives

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