Mycotoxin risk management

Fighting mycotoxins

The risk of mycotoxin contamination is a problem faced by animal farmers across the world. Owing to their high resistance to heat, cold and granulation, mycotoxins are difficult to eliminate. Mycotoxin identification also represents a challenge, as these substances do not induce specific signs and interact amongst themselves, producing unpredictable effects.

Mycotoxins, a difficult challenge in livestock farming

Toxic to humans and animals, mycotoxins are secondary metabolites produced by fungi.
Five major types of mycotoxins have been described:

Fumonisins
Ochratoxin A
Zearalenone
Trichothecenes (including deoxynivalenol, toxin T-2 and toxin HT-2)
Aflatoxins

Mycotoxins have multiple effects on animals, which may be worsened as a result of their combined action:

Fumonisins affect nervous system and pulmonary function;
Ochratoxin A affects liver, kidney, digestive and immune function, in addition to having carcinogenic effects;
Zearalenones affect endocrine and reproductive system function;
Deoxynivalenol and toxin T-2 affect reproductive and digestive system function;
Aflatoxins affect liver, reproductive and immune function, in addition to having potential carcinogenic effects.

As they are invisible, odourless and flavourless, these substances are very difficult to detect. DIN, SA has developed products that ensure animal performance in case of mycotoxin contamination.