Co-Authors:
Paster, N., Department of Stored Products, Agricultural Research Organization, The Volcani Center, Bet Dagan, Israel
Menasherov, M., Department of Stored Products, Agricultural Research Organization, The Volcani Center, Bet Dagan, Israel
Lacey, J., AFRC Institute of Arable Crops Research, Rothamsted Experimental Station, Harpenden, Herts. AL5 2JQ, United Kingdom
Fanelli, C., Dipartimento di Biologia Vegetale, Universita di Roma 'La Sapienza', Largo di Cristina di Svezia, 00165 Roma, Italy
Abstract:
Combinations of physical and chemical treatments were used in attempts to control mould development in maize grain containing 18% moisture. The treatments involved the use of propionic acid (0.1 or 0.2% v/w), γ-irradiation (1.0 or 2.0 kGy) and modified atmospheres (40% or 60% CO2 in the presence of 20% oxygen) either separately or in combination. Mould colonisation during storage was assessed by dilution plating and measurements of respiratory CO2 produced by grain samples. Spoilage was most effectively counteracted using a combination of 0.2% propionic acid with 2 kGy irradiation and 40% or 60% CO2, and this was more successful than any single component used separately, even after 45 days of treatment. Synergistic interaction between treatments thus allows the prospect of more efficient maize storage rather than employing single techniques. This concept could be important in practice because each component is employed only at a relatively low level of intensity. © 1992.