ISSUE FOCUS 34 FEED & ADDITIVE MAGAZINE May 2025 of substrates, either outward or inward. These ABC transporters can work as drug efflux pumps. 2. Production of DON-specific deactivation enzymes, thereby engaging a toxin-specific pyrroloquinoline quinone-dependent detoxification pathway. This enables the bacterial isolate to transform DON to a non-toxic stereoisomer. 3. Upregulation of auxiliary coping proteins, such as porins (transmembrane proteins involved in metabolite exchange), glutathione S-transferases, and phosphotransferases, both of which are likely involved in the detoxification of xenobiotics. PUBLIC HEALTH IMPLICATIONS AND PREVENTIVE MEASURES Given the widespread presence of DON in food and animal feed, its potential role in antibiotic resistance poses a serious threat. The combination of increased bacterial resistance and weakened antibiotic efficacy could lead to more difficult-to-treat infections. This is particularly concerning in hospital settings, where antibiotic-resistant infections already cause high mortality rates. To address the issue, several strategies can be implemented: 1. Reducing DON contamination: Implementing improved agricultural practices, such as crop rotation, the use of fungal-resistant crop varieties, and maintaining proper storage conditions, can help limit fungal growth and DON production. 2. Monitoring food and feed supply – Strict regulations and testing for DON contamination in grains and animal feed are essential to minimize human and animal exposure. 3. Effective mycotoxin risk management at feed mill and farm levels: Using tools such as MasterRisk and effective products combatting mycotoxins. 4. Maintaining gut health: A healthy diet rich in fiber, probiotics, and gut health-supporting feed supplements, such as Ventar D or products from the Activo line, may help counteract some of the adverse effects of DON on gut microbiota. 5. Developing new treatments: Research into alternative therapies and new antibiotics is crucial to combat the rise of antibiotic resistance. ANTIMICROBIAL RESISTANCE: BE AWARE OF THE MYCOTOXINS! The connection between mycotoxins, such as DON, and antibiotic resistance underscores the need for a broader perspective on public health and food safety and once again brings the “One Health Concept” into focus. While antibiotic overuse remains the primary driver of resistance, environmental factors, such as exposure to mycotoxins, should not be overlooked. By increasing awareness, enhancing food safety regulations, and investing in research, we can take steps to mitigate this emerging threat and safeguard the effectiveness of antibiotics for future generations. About Dr. Inge Heinzl Inge Heinzl has a PhD in Agriculture from the University of Munich and has a long experience working in animal nutrition. For the last 15 years she has been working in EW Nutrition, collaborating with product managers and technical managers on topics such as gut health with reduced antibiotic use, egg immunoglobulins for swine and ruminants, and feed quality, with particular emphasis on mycotoxins and endotoxins. About Marie Gallissot Marie Gallissot is the Category Manager Feed Quality Solutions at EW Nutrition. She has a rich background and over 15 years’ experience in toxin solutions and feed management. Gallissot oversees a portfolio comprising toxin binders, antioxidants, acidifiers and more, working in close collaboration with regional affiliates as well as connected platforms in EW Nutrition.
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