THE NEED FOR MOULD INHIBITORS

The presence of mould growth in feed and 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 their 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 as early as possible.

Grains and animal feeds, 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 in optimum proliferation.

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

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

caking of feed (causing inhibited flow from self-feeders)

heating in feeds or grains

a slight “off” odour

darkening of the feed

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 will take place.

Bitek’s mould inhibitors protect all feeds and feed ingredients 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 are:

Heat stable - 95% retention of propionate through the pelleting process.

Immediate and rapid kill off of spores and vegetative cells.

Long term protection.

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