Deoxynivalenol contamination status of corn silage in Hokkaido and proposed countermeasures

Abstract

  We investigated deoxynivalenol (DON) contamination status of corn silage (CS) and factors that affect DON contamination. DON was detected at a high rate in CS produced in Hokkaido. The contamination cases with the highest concentrations rarely exceeded the reference value for Japan. Weather conditions were found to significantly influence the incidence of contamination. We identified additional factors that affect DON contamination. Preharvest - 1) Incidence of Gibberella ear rot in maize is correlated with high concentrations of DON contamination, 2) Physical damage to maize increased the risk of DON contamination. Post-harvest - aerobic condition increase risk of DON contamination. In order to reduce DON contamination, the following measures can be considered : 1) elimination of cultivars susceptible to Gibberella ear rot; 2) instlation of electric fences to prevent damage by wild animals; 3) maintenance of anaerobic conditions during storage and preparation good quality silage.