Understanding My Results
What is mold?
Mold is a term used to describe various fungi that grow in
animal feed and degrade the quality of that feed. Mold growth
is estimated to reduce feed value by at least 10%. Mold germinates
at temperatures as low as 45 degrees F, with most rapid growth
at 75 to 90 degrees F. They require humidity for germination,
therefore, an upper limit of 14.5% moisture is recommended for
stored corn or milo. Other grains should maintain moisture levels
less than 13%.
Molds
A. parasiticus
Produces Aflatoxin. Highly toxic.
A. species (other)
Some useful functions and products. Harmful in large doses.
Alternaria
Common Genus. Problem when ingested or inhaled in large doses.
Aspergillus flavus
Produces Aflatoxin. Highly toxic.
Cladosporium
Common Genus. Not considered a significant problem.
Fusarium (Giberella)
Produces Vomitoxin (DON), T-2 Toxin, Zearalenone, Fumonisim.
Toxins called Tricothecenes. All act to decrease feed intake
and impair general health.
Geotrichum
Common Genus. Many characteristics resembling yeast.
Mucor
Common Genus. Problem when ingested or inhaled in large doses.
Paecilomyus
Common Genus. Not considered a significant problem.
Penicillium species
Produces Patulin, Citrinin, Rubratoxin and Ochratoxin. Penicillium
species are very common. Seldom causes problems except at high
doses.
Rhizopus
Common Genus. Problem when ingested or inhaled in large doses.
Scopulariopsis
Common Genus. Not considered a significant problem.
Interpretation of Mold and Yeast Levels
Mold Count
1,000-10,000 Relatively safe
10-000-100,000 Transition zone
100,000-10,000,000 Caution advised
10,000,000+ Do not feed
200,000-300,000 Think about getting mold identified
Yeast
1,000,000 High
Results: Smell, stomach upset off feed, maybe be able to neutralize
with buffer

Stearns DHIA Laboratories
825 12th Street South, PO Box 227
Sauk Centre, MN 56378-0227
320.352.2028 · 800.369.2697
Fax 320.352.6163 · Email
Hours
Monday-Friday: 8AM-4PM
Drop Off Location
Sauk Centre Front Entrance Drop Off
Open 24 Hours
Refrigerator Available for Water, Milk,
and Wet Feed Samples