Harbro and Alltech collaborate to assess mycotoxin risk on Scottish farms
20 Feb 2020
Throughout the winter, Harbro in conjunction with Alltech, have carried out a mycotoxin survey across Scotland. A number of raw material samples have been collected by Harbro’s on-farm Beef & Sheep team and were then analysed using Alltech’s RAPIREAD test.
None of the samples were over the alert level for Deoxynivalenol or Zearalenone. However, 53% of samples were over the alert level for T-2 mycotoxin.
Mycotoxins can have a damaging effect on suckler cow and ewe fertility and the viability of their offspring. They also impact performance and efficiency of growing and finishing animals. T-2 in particular, affects gut health which in turn can impact dry matter intakes, rumen function, liveweight gain and immunity.
Feeds at higher risk would include grain, forages which are heating in the pit or damp straw which lay for a number of days before being baled.
It’s essential to assess the mycotoxin risk on your farm and feed a mycotoxin binder where required. The broad spectrum mycotoxin binder, MycosorbA+ can be added to any product in the Harbro Grampian mineral range and this is the most cost effective way of reducing the mycotoxin burden in cattle and sheep.
Bob Kendal, Alltech Regional Sales Manager commented ‘Carrying out this survey has armed the Harbro on-farm team with accurate information to allow them to advise farmers on the best steps forward. I’d encourage farmers to speak to Harbro about assessing and minimising the risk of mycotoxins on their farms to ensure minimum impact on performance.’
