Factors Influencing Fungal Activity in Low Moisture Poultry Feeds

Abstract

Feed samples were collected from the feed mill and 4 growers from each of 2 commercial broiler companies. Two sets of samples were collected from the first, middle and last feeders in each poultry house. Feed samples were taken for estimation of mean particle size, respiratory CO2, moisture, percentage of fine particles and zinc concentration. A significant (P <0.05) increase in fungal activity was noted as feed moved from the feed mill to the feeder pans. This increase was associated with an increase in fine particles and higher Zn concentrations. The results offer an explanation as to how fungal activity and subsequent mycotoxin production may routinely occur under field conditions.