Analysis of the relationship between feed safety indicators and storage conditions of crop raw materials

Abstract

Introduction. The intensification of agriculture is outpacing the material and technical capabilities of Russian grain sector, which affects the quality of storage for plant-based products. The growing problem of grain contamination with mycotoxins is directly reflected in the increasing number of animal feed samples failing to meet safety standards. However, there is a lack of comprehensive analysis of all factors contributing to the deterioration of safety indicators for plant raw materials as the main component in feed production, as well as for the finished animal feed product.
Aim. To identify the most toxic type of animal feed introduced into circulation in Russia during 2023-2024 and to investigate the main factors affecting the safety indicators of both raw materials and finished feed.
Materials and methods. The work studied samples of plant-origin feeds, analyzed in the testing laboratories of the Federal Center for Animal Health (FSBI ARRIAH). Investigations were conducted on the following parameters: mycotoxin content and determination of the level of general toxicity.
Results. It was established that compound feeds for farm animals constitute the main share in the structure of toxic feeds. The proportion among positive samples was 52% in 2023 and increased to 69% in 2024. Grain and grain processing products accounted for 18% and 7%, while feeds for non-productive animals accounted for 18% and 12% for the respective periods. The primary source of toxicity was identified as corn grain. The key production stage associated with the deterioration of quality and safety for both raw materials and finished products was determined to be the storage stage.
Conclusion. The conducted research demonstrates the necessity of strengthening control at the stage of agricultural product storage. The developed recommendations are applicable for integration into production control programs and quality management systems at agricultural enterprises, which will contribute to enhancing the safety of finished products.

To cite: Novikova A.V. Analysis of the relationship between feed safety indicators and storage conditions of crop raw materials. Agrarian Bulletin of the North Caucasus. 2025;15(4):34-46. https://doi.org/10.31279/2949-4796-2025-15-4-34-46