Why use bleach?
Many people balk at the idea of using bleach on anything they are going to consume or feed to their animals. Before you disregard step 7 and skip to the next step, realize that bleach is very important to a healthy fodder mat. If you don't sanitize the seed, you run a major risk of mold ruining your trays.
A few facts about mold:
Bleach effectively kills 99% of mold and fungal spores on contact. It's one of the most effective ways to sanitize grain without affecting germination. Rest assured that no bleach residue is left on the finished fodder. A small amount of bleach is added to the initial soak, then the grain is drained and rinsed before being put into the tray. Any residual bleach from the initial seed soak evaporates within 24 hours, so there's no bleach residue on the finished fodder.
I've seen other methods mentioned to sanitize grain, such as vinegar and hydrogen peroxide, but personally I have not had success with either one. Feel free to experiment, but I highly recommend starting with bleach until you gain more experience and know what to expect. Good luck!
Growing Fodder
Do-it-Yourself: Mini Fodder Rack
Daily Fodder Growth
Fodder Tips & Troubleshooting
A few facts about mold:
- 1 ton of grain contains about 100 billion mold spores
- Sprouts & mold both like to grow in warm, moist environments
- Many molds are toxic to livestock and humans
Bleach effectively kills 99% of mold and fungal spores on contact. It's one of the most effective ways to sanitize grain without affecting germination. Rest assured that no bleach residue is left on the finished fodder. A small amount of bleach is added to the initial soak, then the grain is drained and rinsed before being put into the tray. Any residual bleach from the initial seed soak evaporates within 24 hours, so there's no bleach residue on the finished fodder.
I've seen other methods mentioned to sanitize grain, such as vinegar and hydrogen peroxide, but personally I have not had success with either one. Feel free to experiment, but I highly recommend starting with bleach until you gain more experience and know what to expect. Good luck!
Growing Fodder
Do-it-Yourself: Mini Fodder Rack
Daily Fodder Growth
Fodder Tips & Troubleshooting
Brick House Acres Rabbitry - Frankfort, NY 13340 - (315) 338-4638
