Biogenic amines and hygienic quality of lucerne silage

Abstract

This experiment examined the influence of two different silage additives of biological (Lactococcus lactis, Lactobacillus plantarum, Enterococcus faecium, enzyme xylanase) and chemical (43% formic acid, 30% ammonium formate, 10% propionic acid, 2% benzoic acid) types on biogenic amines concentration, nutrient content, fermentation process, and microbiologic indicators in lucerne (Medicago sativa) silage after 90 days of fermentation. The biological additive significantly (P < 0.05) increased putrescine (+51%), lactic acid (+11%) and protein content (+11%) in comparison with control silage. It significantly decreased cadaverine (-29%), histamine (-57%), spermidine (-15%), spermine (-55%), acetic acid (-40%), ethanol (-55%), ammonium (-25%) and ash (-9%). After the chemical-additive treatment, greater amounts of histamine and tyramine were recorded. Significant decrease was observed in the concentrations of putrescine (-18%), cadaverine (-55%), spermidine (-47%), spermine (-45%), lactic acid (-16%), acetic acid (-46%), ammonium (-59%), ash (-13%) and fat (-24%). Populations of bacteria associated with lactic acid fermentation, moulds, yeasts, enterobacteria and total microorganisms count were also influenced. Both biological and chemical additives can be highly recommended for producing high-quality silages meeting hygienic requirements. In lucerne silage, the chemical preservative showed a stronger effect in achieving the health safety of silage compared to the biological inoculant.