Nutrient density and mycotoxin contamination in corn screenings of different bushel weights

This study examined nutrient levels and mycotoxins in corn screening (CS) s amples of three bushel weight (BWT) ranges. CS samples were grouped into BW T categories defined as light (35-40 lb/bu), medium (40-45 lb/bu), or heavy (45+ lb/bu). Proximate analyses were determined for each of 23 samples as were levels of aflatoxins, T-2 toxin, fumonisin, and zearalenone measured b y ELISA analysis. TME analyses were completed on three samples from each of the light and heavy BWT groups. There were differences between BWT groups in protein,fat,fiber,and ash (P<.10), although nutrient changes did not fol low a clear linear trend. Ash content appeared to increase with BWT. TME le vels were 95 kcal/kg lower in light BWT (3240 kcal/kg) than heavy BWT (3366 kcal/kg) CS samples. No differences in mycotoxin levels were seen between BWT groups. Fumonism was detected in 74% of samples at levels from 1 to 3 p pm. CS TME and ash content were related to BWT, whereas relationships to ot her nutrients were less clear.