Thus, we recommend prompt harvest in order to avoid continued aflatoxin development, despite moisture dockage incurred. However, aflatoxin levels may escalate within a few hours if high moisture grain is not handled properly. These conditions are critical to grain quality because, the fungal growth which causes aflatoxin will escalate to excessive levels very quickly under these conditions. Avoid bad areas - Separately harvest obviously stressed, stunted or damaged areas and field edges, if you suspect any aflatoxin problem. These areas are much more likely to contain high levels of aflatoxin.
Producers can often benefit from aflatoxin sampling parts of fields.
Producers may chemically test grain for aflatoxin content by submitting samples to the MSU State Chemical Laboratory. This kit can be used in the field and will show whether the aflatoxin content is less than or greater than 20ppb. Clean grain - Fungal infection is more likely in shriveled, cracked kernels and foreign material. Thus, grain quality may be significantly improved by reducing the combine ground speed, increasing fan speed and opening sieves. Sanitize equipment - Fungal infection can occur during storage as well as in the field.