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A Preliminary Study of the Effects of Gaseous Ozone on the Microbiological and Chemical Characteristics of Whole-Plant Corn Silage

2024; Multidisciplinary Digital Publishing Institute; Volume: 10; Issue: 8 Linguagem: Inglês

10.3390/fermentation10080398

2311-5637

Douglas Luiz Koakoski, Tiago Bordin, Damiano Cavallini, Giovanni Buonaiuto,

Crop Yield and Soil Fertility

This study investigated the effect of gaseous ozone (O3) on the chemical and microbiological properties of whole-plant corn silage. Conducted on a commercial dairy farm in Brazil, maize was ensiled in experimental bag silos and treated with varying levels of O3 (0%, 1.25%, 3.12%, 4.15%, and 6.25%). The findings revealed minimal nutrient losses in starch, non-fiber carbohydrates, crude protein, and total digestible nutrients compared to untreated fresh maize. O3-treated silages exhibited increased levels of ash, ether extract, calcium, and phosphorus. Notably, the application of 3.12% to 4.15% O3 improved microbiological characteristics, significantly reducing mold and yeast populations, which are common issues in farm-produced silage. This study demonstrated that gaseous ozone is a promising additive for enhancing the microbiological quality of corn silage, offering an effective alternative to traditional chemical preservatives.