Learn how aflatoxins can contaminate cattle feed and why it’s crucial for farmers to detect and manage them to protect animal health.
Gil Daigneau, a Florida farmer and the founder of Go Natural Education, explains how aflatoxins are toxic compounds produced by certain molds, especially Aspergillus flavus, which can grow on improperly stored grains and feed ingredients.
Key points include:
- Aflatoxins are dangerous to cattle, potentially causing liver damage, reduced milk production, and even death in severe cases.
- Contamination often occurs in warm, humid conditions, particularly when feed is stored without proper ventilation or moisture control.
- Farmers and ranchers can detect aflatoxins using commercial test kits or by sending samples to labs for analysis.
- Prevention strategies include proper drying and storage of feed, using mold inhibitors, and rotating feedstock to avoid long-term exposure.
This short video emphasizes the importance of vigilance in feed management to ensure livestock health and food safety. It’s part of a broader educational effort to raise awareness about feed quality and toxin risks in agriculture.
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