June 7, 2017

Nutriad applies weather forecasts to predict mycotoxin challenge

Using a compilation of data from past weather patterns, combined with regional mycotoxin levels of past six years, multinational feed additives producer Nutriad has created a model that generates predictive information on future mycotoxin challenges, that could help the industry to act rather than react.

This model will be made available in the US, where Nutriad is cooperating with renowned meteorologist Thomas Novak of Novak Weather Consultants.

Plant, animal, and human epidemics are influenced climatically. Hence, forecasts of weather have already been developed to guide control strategies for many important diseases worldwide.

Now, Nutriad will relate weather-based plant disease forecasts to recent climate change models, and provide a prediction on the effects of climate change on the occurrence of mycotoxins.

Weather is a key player on crops contamination, as different mould grows in different temperatures and humidity, and can be exacerbated by climate changes in different stages of their development. Higher-than-usual rainfall can stimulate mould growth while a drought can stimulate them, increasing the risks of mycotoxin production. 

The same can occur with temperature, as higher or lower than usual temperatures can cause moulds to produce mycotoxins.

Stated Nutriad CEO Erik Visser (pictured, right): "Nutriad has obtained a leadership position in mycotoxin management, working closely with customers around the world, sharing information and developing practical solutions for all species.  Around the world, our product specialists work with producers, independent laboratories and universities on the development of highly effective mycotoxin deactivators. At the same time, we are supporting industry knowledge on how mycotoxins affect animals and how the challenges can be minimised. After the publication of mycotoxin surveys in various countries, the launch of our app Mycoman (pictured, left), Nutriad now introduces the mycotoxin forecast model. It further underlines our commitment to continuously work on supporting customers to take conscious decisions related to mycotoxin risk control."

Over the next six months Nutriad will monitor weather conditions across the US and later in the summer, the company will conduct a threat matrix measure on mycotoxin challenges affecting small grains and corn crops. The threat warning will define levels at "low", "medium" or "high".

The first of each month, Nutriad will provide weather data that projects conditions for the next 30 days.

- Nutriad