11-19 IAN Aflatoxin Again

 I did this story several weeks ago but it related to potential trouble in corn in the Midwest. Now that trouble, Aflatoxin, may be headed to Idaho.  I’m David Sparks…

Due to the difficult weather in the Corn Belt this past summer, the 2012 corn crop is at risk for high levels of aflatoxin. The Idaho State Department of Agriculture (ISDA) is encouraging feed manufacturers and livestock producers to be aware of potential high levels of aflatoxin in corn, corn products and distillers grains. ISDA  spokesperson Lloyd Knight says the problem is not necessarily from Idaho corn: “it is a viable concern because of the corn coming in. I don’t think we have much of a aflatoxin concern in the crop that we grow here but certainly we import a lot of corn into the state.”

Aflatoxin is a toxic compound produced by certain species of fungi.  Aflatoxin-contaminated feed can result in reduced feed intake, reduced production, reduced fertility and depressed immune response in livestock, even if clinical symptoms of toxicity are not present. The effects are greater on younger animals.ISDA is working to ensure that corn and corn products purchased this fall are fed safely. Agency representatives are available for consultation, sampling and testing to assist feed manufacturers, distributors and livestock producers should questions arise about aflatoxin levels in feed.