What is the reason for corn mold growth

Corn mold is mainly caused by damp storage environment, high moisture content during harvesting, unsealed storage containers, insect damage, and moisture during transportation. Moldy corn may produce harmful substances such as aflatoxins, which pose health risks when consumed.

1. Storage environment is humid

Corn is prone to mold growth in environments with relative humidity exceeding 70%. A humid environment can accelerate the absorption of moisture in corn, creating conditions for mold growth. It is recommended to store corn in a dry and ventilated place, and use quicklime or desiccants to assist in dehumidification.

2. High moisture content during harvest

If the moisture content of corn grains exceeds 14% during harvest, mold growth is highly likely to occur during storage. Farmers should harvest corn after it has fully matured and air dry it to reduce its moisture content below safe standards. Drying equipment can be used for dehydration treatment in modern agriculture.

3. Storage container not sealed

Using damaged or incompletely sealed containers to store corn can cause external moisture and microbial invasion. It is recommended to choose food grade plastic drums or metal containers for storage to ensure good sealing performance. In traditional methods, plant ash can be spread at the bottom of the container to absorb excess moisture.

4. Pest damage

Eating corn weevils and other pests can cause damage to the surface of corn kernels, providing a pathway for mold invasion. Pest control requires thorough cleaning of the warehouse before storage, and if necessary, standard pest control agents can be used. Physical prevention methods include low-temperature storage or nitrogen filling technology.

5. Moisture during transportation

If the transportation process encounters rainy or snowy weather or packaging damage, corn is prone to moisture and mold. Long distance transportation should be covered with rainproof tarpaulin, and container transportation should be checked for sealing. After transportation, the package should be unpacked and inspected in a timely manner. If it is found to be damp, it should be immediately spread out for drying or other treatment. Preventing corn mold requires full chain management from planting to consumption. Choose disease resistant varieties, harvest them in a timely manner, and strictly control their moisture content. Regularly check the temperature and humidity during storage, and isolate immediately if mold is found. Moldy corn is not edible and should not be fed to livestock. It is recommended to carry out centralized harmless treatment. When purchasing corn on a daily basis, it is advisable to choose products with intact grains and uniform color to avoid purchasing corn at exceptionally low prices. If corn is found to have a moldy taste or abnormal color, it should be immediately stopped from consumption. Reasonable storage of household corn is recommended to be consumed within six months, and attention should be paid to moisture and mold prevention during the hot summer season.