Luprosil for control of storage fungi in sorghum grain.

Sorghum grain free from visible moulds was equilibrated to 19-20% moisture content. Batches of the grain in large glass bottles were treated with 0.10-0.20% acetic acid, 0.10-0.20% propionic acid, and 0.10-0.40% luprosil (100% propionic acid); the bottles were shaken and held overnight. The grain was then aerated on trays for 20-30 min, re-bottled and stored at room temp. (25-28 degree C). Samples were examined at intervals for moisture content and fungal growth. Acetic and propionic acids were ineffective in controlling fungi. 0.20% and 0.25% luprosil protected grain from fungal infection for approx. 90 days and for greater than 180 days, respectively. An untreated sample exhibited fungal growth after 4 days' storage. Bacterial growth was absent in all luprosil-treated samples. At all luprosil levels, most grain samples had the characteristic pungent smell of luprosil but this was completely removed by seration.