Aflatoxins remain a major problem in Kenya's agricultural sector. A hot and humid climate, erratic rainfall, plant stress, and poor drying and storage create ideal conditions for the growth of Aspergillus fungi, which produce aflatoxin B1, one of the most toxic natural carcinogens. Crop losses, reduced export potential, and public health threats all require a systemic solution.
One effective approach is the use of microbiological plant protection products. EcoRic biofungicide is developed exclusively using the Bacillus subtilis strain BR-1256, which suppresses pathogenic microflora and significantly reduces corn contamination by toxin-producing fungi. However, maximum effectiveness is achieved only when combined with properly developed cultivation, harvesting, and storage technologies.
Let's look at the complete corn journey—from seed to warehouse—and the impact of EcoRic on aflatoxin reduction:
- Healthy seeds and preparation of planting material
The first foci of infection form during the germination stage. If the seed material contains Aspergillus spores, the biofungicide EcoRic becomes a key element of prevention.
Using EcoRic at the start:
- seed treatment with a working solution reduces primary infection;
- probiotic bacteria form a protective biofilm on the seed surface;
- increased germination energy, which reduces stress—the main factor in the penetration of aflatoxin-producing bacteria.
Simply soak the seeds in the EcoRic solution for 3-5 hours before planting.
- Crop treatment during maize growth
Many regions of Kenya (Machakos, Kitui, Meru, and Bungoma counties) experience systemic outbreaks of aflatoxins during flowering and grain filling, when maize is particularly vulnerable.
EcoRic application:
-sprays every 10-14 days create antagonistic microflora on leaves, cobs, and husks;
-microorganisms occupy the space typically occupied by toxin-producing fungi;
-reduce the development of secondary infections caused by maize weevils and other pests.
The solution is applied at a rate of 100 ml of EcoRic per 10 liters of water.
Combined application:
If there is a severe epidemic of fungal diseases or weather conditions significantly increase humidity, EcoRic can be combined with any systemic fungicide in the early stages:
- the chemical fungicide provides immediate pathogen suppression;
- EcoRic consolidates the effect and prevents Aspergillus from recolonizing the crop.
Spray with any systemic fungicide once a month according to the instructions for use + spray with EcoRic solution 3-5 times every 10-12 days.
Result: fewer infected ears - less aflatoxin in the final kernel.
- Harvesting: The Right Timing and Technology
Even perfectly protected corn can be contaminated with aflatoxins after harvest if the cobs remain wet or are damaged during transportation.
Recommendations:
-harvest corn when the grain moisture content is 20-25% and begin drying immediately;
-avoid damage during threshing, as cracks allow fungi to enter;
-remove immature, darkened, and dried cobs.
The Role of EcoRic
Pre-harvest treatments reduce the initial fungal load, allowing more time for drying without the risk of rapid Aspergillus growth.
- Storage
Kenyan farmers lose huge volumes of grain due to improper storage conditions: high humidity, lack of ventilation, traditional sacks, and contaminated warehouses.
Preventive measures:
-bring corn moisture content to <13% (optimally 11.5-12%);
- storage in sealed PICS bags or Farmer Metal Silos;
- regular disinfection of warehouses and removal of old grain waste;
- storing corn only from healthy lots.
Advantages of EcoRic
Although the product is applied directly to the plant, its primary function is to reduce the initial infection, resulting in:
- grain infection slower during the drying period;
- the risk of aflatoxin outbreaks under high-heat conditions is significantly lower.
- Effect ofEcoRic
According to practical experience with EcoRic in East Africa and similar regions, the overall risk reduction for aflatoxins reaches 60-70% with a comprehensive approach.
A single product alone cannot solve the aflatoxin problem in Kenya. However, EcoRic is a critical element in the prevention chain.
Application of EcoRic:
- improves root health and stress resistance of corn;
- reduces Aspergillus colonization at all stages;
- reduces the number of infected ears;
- improves grain quality and its suitability for export;
- reduces corn losses during storage.
By using EcoRic in conjunction with a comprehensive agronomic management program and, if necessary, modern fungicides, Kenyan farmers can significantly reduce the risk of aflatoxins and increase the profitability of corn production.