Hail Increases Mycotoxin Risk in Corn
Mycotoxins in corn are produced when certain species of fungi infect the corn. The can lead to problems later if the infection is not noticed and contaminated corn makes into the food supply. Mycotoxins such as aflatoxin, produced by Aspergillus flavus, are carcinogenic.
A good article on the topic, Risk of Mycotoxins Associated With Hail Damaged Corn, appears at the Iowa agricultural news site Wallaces Farmer. The article is inspired by a spate of hail storms which have recently been hammering the Iowa corn crop.
An excerpt: “Hail storms that occurred recently across the state have caused considerable damage to corn crops that will likely result in reduced yields. Bruises on stalks and ear husks may allow pathogen entrance that could result in stalk and ear rots, and consequently stalk and grain quality issues. In particular, there may be increased risk of mycotoxin contamination on grain.”
More on Mycotoxins:
Agronomic Considerations for Molds and Mycotoxins in Corn Silage
AFLATOXINS: Ocurrence and health risks
Aflatoxins and Carcinogenesis Through Alkylation of Vitaletheine Modulators?
2008 and 2009 National Aflatoxin Fact Sheet (PDF)
A personal narrative of mycotoxin poisoning of a pet rabbit
Tags: mycotoxins
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