What is a common issue faced by grain storage facilities in Wisconsin?

In grain storage facilities, one of the significant challenges is the issue of contaminated grain. This contamination can arise from various sources, including pests, fungi, or harmful chemicals. Pests such as insects and rodents can infiltrate grain storage areas and lead to both contamination and loss of product quality. The presence of mycotoxins from mold growth due to poor storage conditions can also pose serious health risks to consumers and is a critical concern in food safety.

Ensuring that grain remains uncontaminated requires stringent monitoring and preventive measures, such as maintaining ideal temperature and humidity levels, implementing effective pest control strategies, and conducting regular inspections. This focus on contamination is vital, as it not only affects the safety of the grain but also impacts the economic viability of the storage facility. If grain becomes contaminated, it may need to be discarded, leading to financial loss, and thus underscores the importance of addressing this issue in grain storage practices.