THE NEED FOR MOULD INHIBITORS

 

The presence of mould growth in feed raw materials decreases the nutritional value of feed. Toxic secondary metabolites, called mycotoxins, can further be produced by mould, putting animals at risk of mycotoxicosis. Mould growth and the production of secondary mycotoxins should be prevented at all costs. Although mycotoxins can be treated once formed (by mycotoxin binders) it is preferable to prevent their formation through the inhibition of mould growth.

 

Grains and other feed raw materials, having a high energy and nitrogen content, are ideal media for mould growth. The additional, inevitable presence of moisture contributes to the proliferation of fungus. The presence of heat and temperature fluctuations also plays a major role.

Temperature fluctuations, due to heating during the day and cooling at night causes moisture migration within the silos, bunkers or storage areas. Moisture accumulates near the top and around the sides of the silo, increasing susceptibility to mould and yeast. Grains can often be found to be caked at these areas.

 

Signs of mould growth in grains or feed raw materials are the following:

 

caking in silos

heating in grains or raw materials

a slight “off” odour

darkening of the grains

ropiness

feed refusal by animals.

 

With the handling of grains during loading and unloading for transportation, the outer layer of the kernel suffers small cracks. These cracks offer easy entry for mould spores into the kernel. Should these grains now be exposed to heat or moisture fluctuations, mould growth is bound to take place.

 

Bitek’s mould inhibitors protect all feed raw materials by the disruption of macromolecular synthesis in mould and yeast. This is achieved through the intracellular accumulation of anions. The ability of mould and yeast to multiply is also affected by this anion accumulation.

 

Initial action utilises primary volatile components resulting in high anti-fungal and anti-yeast activity. Secondary volatiles are responsible for long term protection, as these are released over time. Protection is thus given from recontamination during storage or transportation.

 

MOULD INHIBITORS

 

The key active ingredient in all Bitek mould inhibitors is the salts of propionic acid together with formic, sorbic and propionic acids. Bitek's mould inhibitors ensure:

 

Immediate and rapid kill off of spores and vegetative cells.

Long term protection.

 

Our range of mould inhibitors are used to raw materials ranging from whole grain storage to extending the shelf life of hominy chop.