Fungi and bacteria are major causes of severe postharvest damage, including kernel discoloration, sour off-flavors, grain caking, and poor seed germination. These microbial issues drastically lower the market value of a crop and can render it unsellable.

The primary concern with fungal growth is the production of dangerous mycotoxins, such as aflatoxins and ochratoxins. These toxic chemical byproducts are highly carcinogenic and pose severe health risks to both humans and livestock. Mold and bacteria thrive in high-moisture, high-temperature storage conditions, making strict moisture control your first line of defense.