I would like to use natural contaminated kernels to evaluate effect of physical parameters on natural DON mycotoxin and validate the process. However, there are 2 issues: a high variation in DON concentration between individual kernels that affects average value and for analysis the kernels need to be ground. So, there is no way to use the same kernels for control and treatment. Artificial spiking does not properly represent the real situation. We didnt have prior experience with DON and would appreciate if somebody suggest a different approach. Thanks you!
An interesting and good question! I fulltime agree that spiking might give other results. My approach would be to check a number of different batches and hope to find a non or very low contaminated one. Sampling any batch should be done by taking quite a number of subsamples, mixing them thoroughly and then taking 3-5 analytical samples. On the net you can find many links to instructions how to (reliably) sample cereals, feed ingredients and animal feed. Good Luck!
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