Fusarium

[rain]

Charlie do you know if fusarium will be killed by the high temps used in pelleting of range cubes. (Malt sprout pellets)

[charliep]

Rain

Before I get into this discussion, I have to highlight the three levels fusarium can be detected at. Presence of the pathagen on seed (fusarium graminearum), visual presence of the disease (fusarium headblight damaged kernels) and presence of the toxins on the seed (D.O.N. or vomotoxin in the old world).

You mentioned malt sprouts so I assume that the grain is free of DON (or at least low levels) - malt barley has to be essentially free of vomotoxin or you get a very poor quality product.

With regards to fusarium graminearum, I haven't heard how the pelleting process would impact. I am not a scientist but I would guess would depend on the temperature/time held there.

Things that I have heard is that composting works for bunk spilled grain mixed in with manure. I with I had a better memory but this is a relationship between temperature/time and the death of the pathogen in composting.

A similar question was asked about tempering feedgrain with stream. No conclusive answer.

The consultation process has been going on for a month now. The issue has both grain producers, livestock feeders and the grain industries attention. What are peoples thoughts.