Potassium Sorbate as a Preservative for High-Moisture Corn

Abstract

ABSTRACT SHELLED corn initially at 18.7, 24 and 28% moisture content was treated with potassium sorbate and potassium sorbate plus propylene glycol. The chemical treatment levels used were 0.1, 0.4, 1.0, 1.5 and 2.5% (wet weight basis). The treated and untreated grain were stored without aeration and with a 0.11 m^ min~i Mg~^ air flow rate at ambient temperature. The treated grain samples were mold-free for 193 days with and without aeration. With aeration even the lower levels of chemical treatment gave the same period of safe storage days for high moisture corn as the higher treatment levels without aeration. Potassium sorbate and potassium sorbate plus propylene glycol extended the safe storage time of even the 28% moisture content grain. There was, however, significant discoloration of the grain and an increase in kernel breakage susceptiblity.