Maize deterioration at the off-farm level of operation
1987
Tiongson, R.L. | Gacilos, R.G. (National Post-harvest Inst. for Research and Extension, Munoz, Nueva Ecija (Philippines))
The highest mean percentage of weight loss caused by insects was noted on samples taken from storage warehouses of wholesalers with an average of 1.5% and a range of 0.01%-21%. Yellow corn was found to be more susceptible to insect infestation in storage than the white variety. Yellow corn stored for six months incurred an estimated weight loss of 9.04% and insect-damaged grains of 69.10%. White corn stored for the same period lost 5.01% in weight and 47.86% of its kernels were damaged by insects. The economic threshold levels (ETL) for yellow corn and white corn were reached at 1.64 and 1.57 months, respectively. On the other hand, the economic injury levels (ETL) were attained at 1.87 months for yellow corn and at 1.93 months for white corn. Generally, all corn reaching the trade channels were positive for aflatoxin. Regional differences in aflatoxin contamination existed. Corn with non-tolerable levels of aflatoxin was more prevalent in samples originating from Southern Mindanao [Philippines] (74%) than those from Cagayan Valley [Philippines] (51%). An inverse relationship between the price of corn grits and aflatoxin contamination was noted. The inability of farmers and traders to promptly dry the grains to a safe level of moisture content (13-14%) was identified as the root cause in speedy maize deterioration. Recommendations are directed towards the solution of major problems identified.
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