With prices significantly higher than last year and faced with unpredictable weather, using a preservative like Baler’s Choice can be a wise decision to ensure top-quality, dust and mould-free bales that can fetch current high market values.
Rising Straw Prices
According to the British Hay & Straw Merchants Association (BHSMA), the prices of barley and wheat straw have increased considerably. The average prices are now £83 and £90 per tonne ex-farm, respectively, reaching up to £90 and £120 per tonne in the South West. This marks a significant rise from last year’s values.
The Benefits of Baler's Choice
While Baler’s Choice is primarily used to preserve hay quality and prevent spontaneous combustion when baling at moisture contents above 15%, it is equally effective for straw. In particular, it is beneficial for crops where the straw remains green while the heads are ready. Baling green straw without treatment can lead to the development of wadding and moulds, which contain mycotoxins. These mycotoxins pose significant respiratory risks to livestock and can cause performance issues.
Trial Results
Trials on straw bales baled at 21% moisture content demonstrated the efficacy of Baler’s Choice. In untreated bales, mould and yeast levels rose dramatically over two months:
| CFU/Gram | Before (UT) | After (UT) | Before (T) | After (T) |
| Mould | 75 | 14,000,000 | 77 | 1,300 |
| Yeast | 47 | 11,000,000 | 40 | 100 |
(UT = Untreated)
(T = Treated)
Safe and Effective
Baler’s Choice preservative is non-corrosive, with a pH of 6, making it safe to handle and non-damaging to machinery. Specifically designed for hay and straw, Baler’s Choice allows for safe baling at higher moisture contents.
Consistent Quality with Automatic Monitoring
Research from Cranfield University highlights that moisture content can vary by up to 5% along a 100m swath. Although a crop may appear dry, this variability can lead to inconsistent baling. The Baler’s Choice applicator automatically monitors the crop’s moisture content as it enters the chamber, adjusting the application of the preservative to ensure uniformity. This process prevents hot spots, ensures consistent quality, and adds value to the bales, achieving a premium product at a cost as low as £1.43 per bale**.
Distribution and Partnership
Baler’s Choice and Harvest Tec applicator systems are distributed in the UK by Harvest Tec, working in conjunction with Carrs Billington and Monarch Agri. For more information on Baler’s Choice and its benefits, visit the Baler’s Choice page or feel free to get in touch.
**Based on an 80×90 bale size. BHSMA values for the week commencing July 28, 2024.