ISSUE FOCUS 36 FEED & ADDITIVE MAGAZINE April 2023 MYCOTOXINS: A WIDESPREAD ISSUE AND FUTURE CHALLENGES Mycotoxins are secondary metabolites, with low molecular weight, toxic in nature and naturally produced by various species of fungi, mainly Aspergillus, Penicillium and Fusarium which usually contaminate food and feed ingredients. They represent a very diverse group, with more than 400 different recognized mycotoxins that differ from each other structurally and in their toxicity. Their prevalence is high worldwide, with recent data reported, for usually detected mycotoxins, up to 60– 80% contaminated crops, largely higher than the 25% estimated by the Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO) a few years ago. It is also well admitted that a very high percentage of cereal-based animal feed is contaminated with more than one mycotoxin, the major contaminants being Fusarium mycotoxins such as deoxynivalenol (DON), zearalenone (ZEA) and fumonisins (FBs). Only a low percentage of feed samples is contaminated above permitted or guideline levels. However, animals (poultry, fish and pigs particularly) exhibit symptoms of mycotoxicosis even when exposed to feed contaminated with mycotoxins below the guidance levels, probably as a consequence of negative synergistic effects. With climate changes and better knowledges about mycotoxins contamination and toxicity, feed industry will have to deal with new challenges to cope with mycotoxins issues to maintain optimal HOW TO GO FURTHER TO LIMIT MYCOTOXINS ADVERSE EFFECTS ON ANIMALS? Feed contamination by mycotoxins remains a big issue and the use of “in the feed” solutions to limit their adverse effects on animals is essential. A wide range of products is available on the market, with different mode of action and level of efficacy. With new challenges facing the feed industry, it will be crucial to evolve from basic toxins binder to more comprehensive and elaborate solutions. Anne-Laure Tournay Product Manager MiXscience, Avril Group Dr. Clarisse Techer Research Innovation Development Manager MiXscience, Avril Group
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