| description: |
Occurrence of moulds and mycotoxins produced by these in grain yields is a global problem. So far, in Estonia there has been conducted little similar research, although, in some years, mycotoxins have been discovered in 45-50% of samples of grain produced in Estonia. This research is dedicated to studying the extent of mucors (Penicillium, Aspergillus, Cladosporium, Mucor, Alternaria, Fusarium, etc.) present in grain and possibilities for reducing the extent and preventing it in different cereals. About a half of the named moulds are potential toxicants that may cause contamination of feed and food grain and their products with mycotoxins. Different possibilities for diminishing contamination of grain with mucors by means of different agrotechnological methods (tilling and cultivation techniques, fertilisation, use of fungicides, herbicides and retardants, post-harvest treatment) will be studied. The potential toxicity of more wide-spread mould species to Bacillus stearothermophilus will also be established. As a result of the research, thoretical bases for reducing and avoiding the infection of grain with moulds during the growth period (considering agroecological factors) will be elaborated, to increase considerably the quality and safety of Estonian grain. |