Grain that is not diseased can become contaminated by passing through contaminated equipment. Spores can be easily isolated from grain that is very slightly contaminated with spores. Since then, it has been found in all major wheat-growing states of India, as well as in Pakistan, Iraq, Mexico, and Afghanistan. The disease may have been present in Mexico since 1970 and has been well established in some areas in northwestern Mexico since 1982. The disease does not present a risk to human health.
Karnal bunt reduces flour quality.
Generally, wheat containing more than 3 percent bunted kernels is considered unfit for human consumption. Pasta products made with flour contaminated with KB spores can have an unacceptable color. By far, the greatest impact of the disease could be on U.S. grain exports. The United States is the world s leading wheat exporter, accounting for one-third of total world wheat exports. As noted, KB affects wheat, durum wheat, and triticale.