IEH features alfalfa hay testing using the state-of-the-art high speed technology known as Near Infrared Reflectance Spectroscopy. The common trade reference for this is NIRS.

In the laboratory, the entire sample is finely ground. A portion of the material is placed in a test cell and inserted into the NIRS unit. A near infrared beam strikes the sample in the cell generating a reflectance spectra. That spectra is read by the system computer and compared to a database.

The data produced from the spectra provides dry matter, crude protein, and acid detergent fiber (ADF) readings on an as received, 90% dry and 100% dry basis. TDN and NEL calculations are predicted based on the acid detergent fiber value.

IEH is able to test for Aflatoxin, the toxic and carcinogenic compound produced by Aspergillus mold species. These soilborne molds can occur nearly everywhere. The FDA has set allowable levels in food and feeds, making your choice of laboratory of utmost importance. Testing should be performed by trained personnel to obtain reliable results.

Certain factors related to the almond industry can influence the occurrence of aflatoxin including:

• Product temperature
• Moisture
• Mechanical injury
• Insect damage
• Handling methods and storage conditions

The Aflatoxin test has a limit of detection of 2 ppb, with a range of quantitation of 5-50 ppb.