RALEIGH, (SGRToday.com) - Farmers in drought-stricken areas of North Carolina take heed. State agriculture officials are warning that early corn harvest dues to dry weather should be tested for aflatoxin to prevent contamination of feeds and food. Aflatoxin is a byproduct of the mold Aspergillus flavus, and can be harmful to both humans and livestock.

“Corn that has been harvested from areas that suffer from drought will be highly susceptible to aflatoxin,” said Agriculture Commissioner Steve Troxler in a statement.

Some farmers may need to have corn samples tested for crop insurance or quality assurance purposes. These samples must be submitted to a grain marketing location certified by the U.S. Department of Agriculture. The tests cost $22.20 per sample.

Locations:

* Cargill Soybean Plant
Attn: Jason Jernigan
1400 S. Blount St.
Raleigh, NC 27603
919-733-4491

* Grain Grading Office
Attn: Judy Grimes
407-G South Griffin St.
Elizabeth City, NC 27909
252-337-9782

Farmers who grow or buy bulk corn to feed to their own animals can have it tested for free by the N.C. Department of Agriculture and Consumer Services’ Constable Laboratory, 4000 Reedy Creek Road in Raleigh.

For more information, contact agriculture department officials in Raleigh.