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Testing Corn for Aflatoxin

By John Nixon

09/07/2012

(KLZA) As if the drought and blistering temperatures wasn't enough for farmers to deal with they now have another hurdle to jump. USDA Plant Pathologist Dr. Kitty Cardwell says this summer was perfect for aflatoxin to spread. ( PLAY AUDIO :08 SECONDS )

Farmers are now rushing to have corn samples tested for the fungus and reports show levels in Nebraska, Kansas and Iowa. Producers face discounted prices for corn with aflatoxin or depending on the level of fungus their crop could be rejected all together.

Cardwell explains the problems caused by aflatoxin. ( play audio :13 seconds )

Reports show trace amounts of aflatoxin present in some corn samples in Nebraska, Iowa and Kansas but it is way too soon to know if this will be a big problem as harvest continues. Corn with higher levels of aflatoxin will be rejected and demand for corn without the fungus will skyrocket causing prices to do the same.

Dr. Cardwell says this is a case where one bad apple can spoil the whole bunch as it spreads in storage. ( play audio :06 seconds )

It is not yet known if aflatoxin will be a serious problem this year but we already know there won't be as much corn due to the drought. If the problem is widespread the demand for corn without will increase significantly and so will the price.

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