Forage Mycotoxin Information

Mycotoxicosis, which is mycotoxin poisoning, has long been accepted as an acute cause of poor animal performance. Moulds and mycotoxins are widely distributed in nature, occurring whenever there is sufficient organic matter, temperature and water for them to reproduce. Some, if not all moulds can produce a mycotoxin when subjected to stress. These mycotoxins consumed either in large single doses or in small quantities over long periods can adversely effect production, fertility and herd health.

The Action of Optimize

Optimize silage stabiliser is a complete microbial system incorperating the latest thinking on silage inoculation. It has been developed for use over the widest possible range of forage types to improve silage aerobic stability and reduce waste. Designed to kill out spoilage organisms, yeasts and moulds in the early stages of acidification, between pH 7.0 and 5.0, Optimize then populates the silage with the correct stabilising bacillus without creating too much acidity in the pit. Dr. Kieth Jones, Head of Microbiology at Lancaster University confirmed "In an anaerobic atmosphere, Optimize provides the dominant Gram positive desirable bacteria for efficient ensiling".

Therefore Optimize enables farmers to treat for mycotoxins at the point of ensiling rather thann at feed out. Well preserved silage leads to healthier rumen micro flora and more efficient digestion. An increase in appetite for silage results in a healthier, more productive cow.