To help producers have a better outlook for yeast and mold concerns in the feed they are using in 2022, Quality Liquid Feeds (QLF) worked alongside Kemin Animal Nutrition & Health – North America to obtain data from Dairyland Laboratories. The data and information below were based off samples collected from all over the U.S., analyzed October-December. These samples have been analyzed in a variety of ways, but certain trends emerged overall.
Wild yeast and mold populations at profit-robbing levels
Dairyland Laboratories of Wisconsin reported wild yeast in 2021 silage (to be fed in 2022) is at critical levels, which can lead to significant production concerns if not managed. In 2021, 51% of Q4 samples have levels over 1,000,000 CFU/g of wild yeast and are more likely to heat during warm weather, leading to feed refusal, nutrient loss and milk component depression.
Furthermore, mold counts in corn silage samples typically increase as wild yeast growth raises the pH of the silage. In 2021, 27% of Q4 corn silage sampled by Dairyland Laboratories had over 100,000 CFU/g — a concerning level that can rise rapidly in warm weather.
Ensure your feed isn’t eating at your profits. Contact a local QLF representative to determine if your feed needs action.