What specific concern is associated with harvest in wheat infected with scab disease?

The concern associated with harvest in wheat infected with scab disease, also known as fusarium head blight, primarily revolves around the presence of mycotoxins, particularly vomitoxin (deoxynivalenol). This toxin is produced by the fungus that causes scab and can be detrimental to both human and animal health. High levels of vomitoxin render the grain unfit for consumption and can significantly affect marketability.

When harvest occurs, if the wheat has been infected with scab, the resulting grain can contain elevated levels of vomitoxin, posing risks such as acute toxicity in livestock and potential regulatory issues regarding grain sale. Detecting and managing these toxins is crucial for ensuring food safety and maintaining quality standards in wheat production.

While factors such as nitrate levels, protein content, and grain weight can be influenced by various agronomic conditions, the specific and immediate health concern linked to scab infection is the toxic levels of vomitoxin, making it the most pertinent issue during harvest.