During the storage, transportation, sale, and use of feed, it is highly susceptible to mold contamination. The growth and reproduction of mold not only consume essential nutrients in the feed but also degrade its quality, reduce its nutritional value, and may lead to digestive issues such as diarrhea, enteritis, and weakened immune function in animals. In severe cases, this can even result in death. Because of these risks, foreign feed manufacturers and researchers have placed significant emphasis on developing and applying anti-mold technologies.
In recent years, several advanced anti-mold techniques have been widely used abroad. These include radiation sterilization, the addition of mold inhibitors, the use of anti-mold packaging, combined chemical and radiation treatments, and genetic modification of fungi to prevent toxin production.
One common method is **radiation sterilization**. After feed is ground or pelleted, it may be contaminated with harmful bacteria like *Salmonella* and *E. coli*. Researchers in the U.S. have tested feeding chickens with feed exposed to 10 kGy of gamma rays. When stored under conditions of 30°C and 80% humidity for a month, the irradiated feed showed no signs of mold growth, while non-irradiated feed became moldy within days. This technique effectively extends the shelf life of feed without deterioration.
Another approach is the **addition of mold inhibitors**. Common agents used globally include potassium iodide, calcium iodate, calcium propionate, formic acid, seaweed powder, and citrus peel extracts. Japanese scientists found that combining multiple agents yields better results. For example, mixing 92% seaweed powder with 4% calcium iodate and 4% calcium propionate, and adding it at 8% of the feed weight, prevented mold growth for a month under high humidity (30°C, 100%). In contrast, untreated feed developed mold within five days. This combination has led to the development of more effective anti-mold additives.
**Anti-mold packaging** is another innovative solution. Japanese researchers created a specialized feed bag made from polyolefin resin containing 0.01% to 0.50% vanillin or ethyl vanillin. The slow release of these compounds into the feed prevents mold growth and adds a pleasant aroma, improving palatability. An outer layer of the bag also helps retain the active ingredients, ensuring long-term protection against mold.
A **combined chemical and radiation treatment** has also proven effective. Soviet researchers found that first treating feed with chemicals like ammonia, propionic acid, or formic acid, followed by ultraviolet irradiation, significantly reduced microbial growth. This method not only prevents mold but also enhances the vitamin D content of the feed, making it more nutritious than using either method alone.
Finally, **genetic modification of fungi** offers a promising long-term solution. By altering the genetic code of mold-producing fungi like *Aspergillus flavus*, researchers can disable their ability to produce aflatoxins. Modified strains can then compete with wild molds, reducing contamination in feed and improving safety.
These technologies demonstrate the ongoing efforts in the global feed industry to ensure safe, high-quality feed and protect animal health.
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