Can cows eat moldy grain? The answer is a qualified yes. This article covers Mycotoxins, Listeria monocytogenes, Penicillium molds, and Effects on rumen microflora. However, the issue is not as clear-cut as it may seem. In this article, we discuss the potential health effects of molds in cattle, and the importance of avoiding exposure to very moldy grain.
Contents
Mycotoxins
Mycotoxins are toxic substances that can be found in feeds that have been in contact with fungus. Unlike mold, mycotoxins are invisible to the naked eye. In fact, they can be found in feeds that do not appear to be contaminated by mold. Therefore, it is important to ensure that the grain being fed to your cows is free of mycotoxins. Listed below are some common mycotoxin-containing feeds and how to identify them.
Listeria monocytogenes
While the prevalence of listeriosis outbreaks is low, the contamination of raw milk and unpasteurized ice cream has been linked to the pathogen. Other common sources include raw or undercooked poultry, pet food, and unpasteurized dairy products. The longer the food is refrigerated, the greater the chance it has of harboring the pathogen. Fortunately, there are a few steps consumers can take to minimize their risk.
Penicillium molds
Cattle producers need to be aware of the risks associated with feeding their livestock to moldy grain. Some types of molds produce mycotoxins that affect the performance of livestock. Testing must be conducted to determine the presence of these toxins and to know the threshold levels for their health. If you are concerned about feeding your cattle to moldy grain, you should consider having samples tested. Listed below are some of the risks associated with feeding cattle moldy grain.
Effects on rumen microflora
Interestingly, dietary inclusion of moldy grain had no effect on the rumen microflora, despite the widespread use of this feed additive. In a recent study, a change in grain diet led to increased Feramyces in the rumen, and the presence of Joblinomyces was decreased in cows fed on HG. However, the results were inconsistent for other rumen microbes, and a study in mice revealed that HG impacted the composition of the rumen’s microbial communities.
Precautions to take to prevent mycotic abortions
Cattle may develop mycotic abortions when fed mouldy grain. Mycotoxins are toxins produced by fungi, bacteria, and yeast and can be dangerous to a growing fetus or pregnant woman. Fusarium-related mycotoxins can affect the uterus, brain, or placenta. The toxicity is more serious in pregnant cows and young calves. Cattle feed should be screened for mycotoxin concentrations to protect against mycotic abortions.
Effects on nutrient loss
In addition to causing a number of health problems, mold can be toxic to your body. As mycotoxins, these invisible chemicals are produced by certain types of mold, you may experience respiratory distress. However, unless you have respiratory problems, you should not worry about small amounts of mold. However, ingesting fungal spores may affect those with weakened immune systems and may result in food poisoning-like symptoms. To prevent such reactions, you should be aware of any symptoms of allergic reactions.
Symptoms of mycotic abortions
The occurrence of mycotic abortions is very rare in cattle. While producers are often surprised by the incidence, they should know what to look for and how to diagnose it. Recently, the Kansas State Veterinary Diagnostic Laboratory received three cases of mycotic abortion in a week, proving that the fetus is not only affected by mold, but also the dam.
