As dairy producers begin to steadily feed out their 2015 corn silage, nutritionists might want to take a proactive approach by testing their clients’ feed bunks to see what risks may be present. Since Alltech’s 2015 North America Harvest Analysis, additional testing through the Alltech 37+® mycotoxin analysis is now indicating type A trichothecene mycotoxins are on the rise.

According to Dr. Max Hawkins, Alltech Mycotoxin Management team nutritionist, type A trichothecenes, composed of T-2, HT-2, diacetoxyscirpenol and neosolaniol, have shown an increase in levels present from 33.18 parts per billion (ppb) in September to 86.38 ppb in February (as illustrated by the trend line in Figure 1). Type A trichothecenes are now present in 46 percent of all samples of corn silage.

“The levels are higher than in years past, and exactly why that may be is difficult to identify. There may be many causes,” said Hawkins.

Type A trichothecenes are produced by Fusarium molds. Fusarium molds require moisture levels at or above 70 percent humidity as well as oxygen and a temperature range that can include cool days and nights to cool nights and hot days. Corn plants stressed from insect damage or birds, plant disease, wind and hail are always a concern for mold proliferation. Corn silages that are drier, poorly packed and allow greater oxygen penetration are also at a greater risk.

The Alltech 37+ mycotoxin analysis tested 239 corn silage samples from Sept. 1, 2015, to March 8, 2016. The average sample contained 5.28 mycotoxins. The Risk Equivalent Quantity, or the risk represented by all of the mycotoxins present, is at higher risk in 59.1 percent of all corn silage samples with another 17.7 percent at a moderate risk.

“Over 75 percent of corn silage presents an increased risk to dairy cows,” said Hawkins. “This contributes to the complexity of the mycotoxin mixture that is included into total mixed rations (TMRs) and can lead to increased mycotoxin impact on cow health and performance.”

Type B trichothecenes and fusaric acid were present in more than 90 percent of the samples, while fumonisins have been found in over 70 percent of the samples. The levels of these mycotoxin groups have remained relatively constant at a moderate-to-high risk since harvest. Type A trichothecene toxins, however, have shown a steady increase since January.

In the dairy cow, type A trichothecenes first affect the rumen where they are partially metabolized. Rumen adsorption may be increased by rumen acidosis. When cellulolytic bacteria activity decreases, protein synthesis is reduced.

The ingestion of type A trichothecenes can cause reduced feed intake, slower weight gain, decreased milk production, digestive disorders (vomiting and diarrhea), acute hemorrhagic enteritis, reproductive failure, increased mortality, hemorrhages (stomach, heart, intestine, lung, bladder, kidney), edema, dermatitis, immune suppression, abomasal and ruminal ulcers and death. Serum immunoglobulins and complement proteins are lowered in calves receiving T-2 toxin. Also, a reduction in white blood cell and neutrophil counts in calves can be observed after exposure to these types of toxins.

“The increasing level of type A trichothecenes, along with the steadily higher level of type B trichothecenes and fusaric acid, creates a combination of mycotoxins that can easily increase the risk of corn silage that is being included into the TMR,” Hawkins said.

JPW Nutrition recently utilized Alltech’s 37+ mycotoxin analysis program to test corn silage and TMR samples for some of their customers in the Midwest. The results indicated type B trichothecene toxins were most prevalent; however, type A trichothecene mycotoxins were also showing up. Jason Prins, a nutritionist with JPW Nutrition, wasn’t surprised the analysis found type A trichothecenes, as he had observed issues with stomach linings being excreted and gut health challenges on the dairies.

“From a reproduction, immune response and gut health standpoint, we need to know what type of mycotoxins are having an impact. Finding out which types of mycotoxins are present in the feed allows us to make adjustments in the diet accordingly,” said Prins. “For our clients, we have found that it is better to be proactive than reactive with these issues.”

Figure 1 - Type A Trichothecenes Risk in Corn Silage

To excel in their sport, most athletes consume a diet as carefully planned as their training regimen. Vitamins, minerals, proteins and other sports supplements enhance both their mental and physical strength. Plants respond similarly to biostimulants, which can be used to activate their metabolism and influence biological processes within the plant. 

What are biostimulants?

Biotstimulants foster plant development in a number of demonstrated ways throughout the crop lifecycle, from seed germination to plant maturity. They can be applied to plant, seed, soil or other growing media that may enhance the plant’s ability to assimilate nutrients and properly develop.

By fostering complementary soil microbes and improving metabolic efficiency, root development and nutrient delivery, biostimulants can:

• Increase yield in terms of weight, seed and fruit set.
• Enhance quality, affecting sugar content, color and shelf life.
• Improve the efficiency of water usage.
• Strengthen stress tolerance and recovery.

Currently, humic and fulvic acids constitute more than half of the biostimulant market, with seaweed extracts being secondary. Microbial extracts, plant extracts, vitamin B, chitin and chitosan round out the market offerings, according to the 2nd World Congress on the use of Biostimulants in Agriculture in November 2015.

Other names for biostimulants include plant strengtheners and conditioners, phytostimulants, bioactivators and soil, yield, crop and plant growth enhancers. Despite their increasing use, at this point, no country in the world has a regulatory framework that defines specifically what is a biostimulant.

Why are they being used?

The global market for biostimulants is projected to increase 12 percent per year and tip past the $2 billion sales mark by 2018, according to a November 2015 Markets and Markets report. There are multiple contributors to this rise:

• Proven performance and acceptance from NGOs, governmental bodies and academia.
• Increased commercial customization of solutions.
• The need to restore degraded soil.
• Demand from farmers and consumers for environmentally safe and organic products that provide alternatives to synthetic inputs.
• Increasing agronomic production demands.

Presently, Europe represents the lion’s share of the biostimulant market at 42 percent. North America and Asia are estimated to have approximately 20 percent market share each, with Latin America at 13 percent, according to the 2nd World Congress on the use of Biostimulants in Agriculture in November 2015.

As the distance between farmer and consumer closes around the world, we must continually adapt our methods to meet the ever-growing demand for high-quality, safe food. In the webinar, “The Path of Least Resistance,” we took a dive into the world of antibiotics, specifically how they have impacted and will continue to impact the agriculture industry. The key speaker, Dr. Richard Murphy, explained why we should worry about antibiotic resistance, where we are now with restrictions on antibiotics in livestock health and what opportunities exist for your operations.

Our three key takeaways were:

1. Worldwide, scientific evidence indicates an overall decline in the total stock of antibiotic effectiveness; resistance to all first-line and last-resort antibiotics is rising.
2. The livestock and poultry industries are not only facing increasing scrutiny from regulatory bodies such as the FDA and EFSA, but, worldwide, meat processors are starting to demand change.
3. Alternative growth promotion strategies are available that utilize strategic nutritional management practices as part of an antibiotic-free strategy for animal production.

To view the webinar and get the full story behind the takeaways, click on the button below:

With the 2016 Central Plains Dairy Expo kicking off this week in Sioux Falls, South Dakota, we are gearing up for a unique educational experience. Dr. Roger Scaletti, Alltech North America Mineral Management team technical sales and support, and Tom Lorenzen, Alltech on-farm specialist, will be teaming up for an udder health workshop, helping producers take an inside look at udder health and milk quality. 

Scaletti and Lorenzen plan to give producers four key practical approaches to managing udder health and combating mastitis:

Environment

The environment that your cattle are housed in can play a major role in poor milk quality. Are your cows housed in a mastitis-infected yard, or are they in a well-ventilated dry area, with minimal contact to some of the key mastitis-causing bacteria? While udder health management is important in preventing cases of mastitis, it is also important to understand how the disease travels through the udder. According to Scaletti, it’s a process beginning with the bacteria first entering the gland, multiplying, evading host defenses and finally damaging the host. Cases of mastitis can be both clinical or subclinical and contagious or environmental.

Know your enemy

“If you cannot measure it, you cannot control it. If you cannot control it, you cannot manage it.”

These words of advice from Lorenzen ring true. Whether culturing quarters individually or utilizing a California Mastitis Test (CMT), getting an understanding of what bacteria or what quarters you are dealing with is key. To find out what type of mastitis cows are infected with, Scaletti suggests culturing milk or using a DNA test. This quick test, which only takes four hours, can examine the bulk tank or individual cows, and producers can use the same sample as collected for somatic cell count (SCC). The test can be customized to report only contagious pathogens, or you can request the full panel of pathogens that can be detected. Running a culture on infected quarters can be beneficial in understanding what specific bacteria you are fighting, and what specific treatment to which that particular bacteria will respond.

Feeding program

Nutrition and the use of organic trace minerals can play a key role in milk quality as well as managing infections before they even occur. Nutrition has been linked to improving immune function and reducing mastitis. Selenium for strong antioxidant phagocytic cells, zinc for the integrity of skin and copper for neutrophil production and antibody development are a few of the more important trace minerals involved in immune function.  Alltech has committed over 30 years to research in mineral nutrition as well as formulating technologies that meet herds’ needs while safeguarding them from potential risks.

Minerals: Form vs. function

While some might argue for more inorganic minerals in the ration, Scaletti said it is important to consider bioavailability, mineral interactions and environmental concerns. A trace mineral chelated to amino acids or peptides offers higher bioavailability and supports the animal’s natural defense system. In addition to organic mineral research, Scaletti also highlighted the importance of keeping the cow’s selenium status in check. In one recent Florida study, researchers found cows fed organic selenium had 100,000+ lower SCC than those fed sodium selenite.

According to the American Diabetes Association, 90-95% of Americans diagnosed with diabetes have Type 2 Diabetes, and an adult diagnosed with diabetes dies an average of six years earlier than a counterpart without diabetes.

Type 2 Diabetes is a chronic condition that affects the way the body metabolizes glucose, resulting in insulin resistance. Insulin resistance (IR) is a syndrome that affects other mammalian species, including dogs, cats and horses. When a healthy animal eats, food is broken down, sugars are absorbed in the intestine and blood glucose levels increase. As a result, a hormone called insulin is produced by the pancreas, which tells muscle, liver and fat to increase the uptake of glucose so it can be stored for future use. When an animal or human becomes insulin resistant, this doesn’t happen. As a result, the body keeps producing insulin, hoping that it will help and glucose will be stored, but instead both blood insulin and glucose levels stay high. While exact causes are unknown, often the onset of IR is preceded by weight gain and obesity. High sugar or starch diets can cause lower insulin sensitivity even in non-obese animals. In some cases, it’s believed that high starch diets can make animals more prone to IR because they did not evolve to eat those diets such as cats who are true carnivores. In the case of horses, overfeeding can trigger weight gain and increased adiposity, which can lead to IR.

While it may not seem like a big deal at first, elevated blood insulin and glucose levels can cause long term health problems. For instance, the hyperinsulinemia (elevated blood insulin levels) in horses can induce laminitis, which causes inflammation in the hoof wall lining and lameness. In companion animals and people, unmanaged insulin resistance can cause kidney damage and loss of vision.

Treatment of IR is often through diet and health management, which sounds simple but can be a challenge to those affected. Management includes having the discipline to monitor carbohydrate consumption and exercise on a regular basis. However, human error such as underestimating intake or overestimating exercise intensity can lead to poor disease management and chronic problems.

One area that shows promise for improving insulin resistance is the inclusion of microalgae meal in the diet. Microalgae meal is a heterotrophic strain of algae containing high levels of the omega-3 fatty acid, Docosahexaenoic acid (DHA), produced by the global animal nutrition leader, Alltech Inc. In a trial conducted at the Alltech Research Farm, insulin resistant horses were fed a diet supplemented with microalgae meal and their blood insulin and glucose responses were measured. Researchers found that both insulin and blood glucose levels were reduced compared to horses that did not get microalgae. This means that microalgae, or a component of the microalgae like DHA, caused the horses’ bodies to become more insulin sensitive without changing their diet (beyond microalgae meal inclusion) or increasing exercise.

For people who struggle to manage IR in their pets, this is great news. While diet and exercise management is still essential, this research shows another way people can improve the health and well-being of their animals that have become insulin resistant and prevent the devastating conditions that can result from not properly controlling insulin and glucose levels in IR animals. To help fight IR, microalgae meal must be added to your pet’s diet on a daily basis. If this simple addition to your pet’s daily diet can help prevent IR and all of its devastating complications like blindness, lameness or kidney failure, why wouldn’t you feed it? 

More and more college students are realizing the value of work experience in their chosen field before graduation. In fact, the number of undergraduates participating in internships or co-op experiences during college has risen to a high of 65 percent, according to the National Association of Colleges and Employers Class of 2015 Student Survey. It also found that students who participate in paid internships have a greater chance of graduating with a job offer.

What better way to experience a future career than by interning with a potential employer?

More than 170 students have gained invaluable experience as interns at Alltech’s Center for Nutrigenomics and Applied Animal Nutrition since the world-renowned research facility opened in 2008. All these student researchers have completed projects impacting the company’s research program aimed at creating solutions for the global agriculture industry.

From traditional nutrition evaluation trials to evaluation and optimization of production processes, these students (the majority of them undergraduates) not only learn valuable information but also gain hands-on experience and training. Many have set themselves on paths to graduate school. Others have even found their career path with Alltech.

“The experience has opened a lot of doors to opportunities I had not imagined,” said Hayley Kincaid, a recent biology graduate of the University of Pikeville in Kentucky.

Kincaid joined the internship program right after graduation so she could begin gaining research laboratory experience. “I never expected to be here,” she said, “but I love working in the lab.” Kincaid is working with the poultry nutrition group during her time at Alltech.

“I didn’t know that companies like Alltech existed,” said Kincaid, who learned about Alltech and the internship program when a company representative visited her school. She is excited about future opportunities with companies like Alltech in Eastern Kentucky.

The only problem she has with her three- to four month-internship at Alltech is she would like it to be longer. “I just like it so much; I want to stay!” she said.

For many, an internship with Alltech is the type of experience needed before making a decision to pursue an advanced degree in a scientific field.

Megan Dudley, a psychology major at the University of Kentucky with an interest in neuroscience and genetics research, plans to eventually pursue a Ph.D. in the field. A professor mentioned a potential internship at Alltech could be advantageous.

“The experience in methodology will be invaluable when applying to grad school,” Dudley said.

The experience in the laboratory has not been the only benefit. “I think my confidence level has increased dramatically from being here,” Dudley said, explaining that she takes responsibility for her research project in a new way, which will be necessary for graduate school.

For others, an internship experience with Alltech is a determining factor in a career not just in research, but with the company.

Amanda Sberna is the senior lab technician and marketing specialist for the Analytical Services Laboratory at Alltech. She interned with Alltech before graduation.

“Through my internship I gained knowledge and skills that would help me to become the scientist I am today,” she said. “Alltech is an incredible company to work for, offering many different opportunities with your career.”

For more information about Alltech’s student research internship program, or to apply, please visit http://www.alltech.com/about/careers/internships.

We have some exciting news to share: This morning we finalized an acquisition agreement that will provide us ownership of Masterfeeds LP, a leading commercial animal nutrition company in Canada. 

Masterfeeds produces some of the Canadian feed industry’s best-selling and most widely-recognized nutrition products.  Following Alltech’s acquisition of EMF Nutrition, another stalwart Canadian feed company, in 2013, the acquisition of Masterfeeds further strengthens our presence in Canada. The three companies together will now compose one of Canada’s largest animal nutrition offerings. Alltech, Masterfeeds and EMF Nutrition employ nearly 700 Canadians and operate 25 manufacturing facilities, nine retail locations and seven distribution centers in a business spanning the entire country.

Masterfeeds will continue to be headquartered in London, Ontario, Canada, and led by its current Chief Executive Officer, Rob Flack.

Customers of Masterfeeds, Alltech and EMF Nutrition can expect business as usual. The same range of brands, products and solutions will be available.  In the future, customers may also benefit from an increased variety of nutritional solutions and services, backed by the latest scientific research.

Feed costs represent the majority of total livestock production costs.  By improving nutrition, farmers and ranchers can realize a significant increase in efficiency, profitability and sustainability.  Our continued commitment to tailoring nutrition programs, with a focus on natural ingredients, allows farmers and ranchers to raise healthier animals through a process that is beneficial for Animals, Consumers and the Environment. It’s our guiding ACE principle at work.

This growth opportunity will create better access for farmers and ranchers to superior animal nutrition solutions through Masterfeeds’ and EMF Nutrition’s extensive on-farm presence and dealer distribution networks in Canada.  Canadian farmers and ranchers will have the opportunity to benefit from leading nutrition technology and additional services, including on-farm audits and analysis tools.

We’re thrilled to welcome the Masterfeeds team to Alltech, and we’ll have more to share about our integration soon. 

While creatine, branched-chain amino acids and glutamine are well known and frequently utilized amongst fitness buffs and competitive athletes, there’s another nutrient taking its turn in the spotlight – DHA. DHA, short for docosahexaenoic acid, is an essential omega-3 fatty acid that has made a name for itself for its role in both cardiovascular and brain health. More recently, the sports nutrition community has taken notice of DHA’s ability to help speed recovery, increase gains and improve athletic performance.

DHA aids in the muscle recovery process as an anti-inflammatory agent and reduces DOMS (delayed onset muscle soreness), perceived pain and range of motion 48 hours post exercise.¹These qualities, along with boosting blood and oxygen flow to muscles, may also decrease incidence of injury.

Increasing the amount of DHA you consume may help decrease muscle breakdown and increase protein synthesis by increasing the body’s muscle-building response to insulin and amino acids.²Fatty acids like DHA not only increase muscle gains, but may also increase the body’s level of calcium absorption, improving bone strength.³

A vital component in nerve endings, neurons and muscle membranes – DHA has been shown to improve reaction time of athletes during competition.⁴ DHA also decreases heart rate, which can help improve oxygen utilization during competition or tough workouts.⁵

References:

1. Tartibian B, et al. (2009). The effects of ingestion of omega-3 fatty acids on perceived pain and external symptoms of delayed onset muscle soreness in untrained men. Clinical Journal of Sports Medicine, 19.(2),115-9.
2. Smith G, et al. (2011). Omega-3 polyunsaturated fatty acids augment the muscle protein anabolic response to hyperaminoacidemia-hyperinsulinemia in healthy young and middle aged men and women. Clin Sci (Lond),121(6), 267–278.
3. Maggio M, et al. (2009). The impact of omega-3 fatty acids on osteoporosis. Curr Pharm Des, 15(36),4157-64.
4. Lewis E, et al. (2015). 21 days of mammalian omega-3 fatty acid supplementation improves aspects of neuromuscular function and performance in male athletes compared to olive oil placebo. Journal of the International Society of Sports Nutrition, 12,28.
5.  Mori T, et al. (1999). Docosahexaenoic Acid but Not Eicosapentaenoic Acid Lowers Ambulatory Blood Pressure and Heart Rate in Humans. Hypertension, 34, 253-260.