Silage samples from across the U.S., Canada and Europe have shown high levels of mycotoxins, according to the Alltech 2017 Harvest Analysis. The high reading comes on the heels of similar findings in 2016.
Recent reports of high concentrations of fumonisin in corn have come from Texas and other surrounding states. Fumonisin is commonly found in corn at levels of 2 ppm or less, but this year, testing has confirmed levels well above 30 ppm, and some above 100 ppm. Livestock producers should be aware of fumonisin contamination when purchasing grain, because when consumed by animals, fumonisin affects several biological systems, leading to reduced feed intake and efficiency and liver damage.
Aquaculture, also known as aqua farming, is believed to have first begun around 4,000 years ago in China with the production of carp and is now the fastest-growing animal food production sector in the world. For the first time in history, the consumption of farmed fish has exceeded that of wild-caught fish, and by 2030, aquaculture is expected to account for two-thirds of the fish that humans consume.
The following is an edited transcript of Tom Martin’s interview with Ronald Faber of Coppens International, an Alltech Company. Ronald has since been promoted to managing director.
A good start for fish larvae is not only crucial to health and development — it also impacts producer profitability.
Weaning on dry feeds with an unbalanced diet can result in deformities and high mortality rates. High-quality starter diets are therefore essential. Providing nutritional solutions for the specific needs of larvae in their most critical life stage benefits the fish during their entire lifecycle. Supporting the healthy development of all organs, including the skeleton, for an ideal start begins with optimal nutrition.
