Improper handling of maize during the post-harvest period can drastically affect its quality. If not stored or processed well, maize can suffer damage or worse—it can be unfit for either human or animal consumption. Maize should be dried immediately after harvest in order to avoid creating a conducive environment for pest breeding.
Farmers and handlers must pay attention to the moisture content of maize. After harvest, maize typically has a high moisture content and therefore should be reduced to 13 to 14% to prevent mold growth and consequently, damage or post-harvest food waste.

POST HARVEST TREATMENT
Actellic® Gold Dust
ACTELLIC Gold Dust is a broad spectrum insecticide for use against grain storage pests like the Larger Grain borer (LGB), grain weevil, red flour beetle and lesser grain beetle in maize.

Actellic Gold Dust to be applied on fresh harvested grains, prior to be bagged. Use 50 g of Actellic Gold Dust per 90 kg of grain

It controls existing infestations and gives long-term protection against re-infestation.
Actellic Gold Dust is effective under tropical, humid conditions.
It persists for several months on grain and inert surfaces.
Actellic Gold Dust can be applied direct to grain, and to bags.

To summarize, the best post-harvest practices for maize include drying properly, monitoring moisture content carefully, and ensuring that the storage in place will protect the maize from mould growth, pests, and moisture.