Global mycotoxin contamination in animal feed reaches alarming levels, DSM-Firmenich survey reveals
SWITZERLAND – DSM-Firmenich, a leading innovator in health, nutrition, and bioscience, has released its annual World Mycotoxin Survey for 2024, uncovering a significant increase in mycotoxin contamination levels in animal feed across the globe.
The survey, which analyzed 28,388 feed samples from 95 countries, found that all six major mycotoxins particulary aflatoxin, zearalenone, vomitoxin, fumonisins, T-2 mycotoxin, and ochratoxin A, have seen a marked rise in prevalence compared to 2023.
DSM-Firmenich is dedicated to creating innovative solutions that address the world’s most pressing challenges. Through its cutting-edge research and commitment to sustainability, the company strives to improve the quality of life for people, animals, and the planet.
The 2024 survey revealed that North and Central America, South Asia, China, and Taiwan are facing extreme mycotoxin risks, posing significant challenges to livestock health and productivity.
In North America, for instance, fumonisin prevalence in corn samples has varied widely over the past decade, with peak contamination levels observed in 2007, 2012, 2019, and 2023.
In Asia, the contamination profile is equally concerning. Between January and June 2024, analysis of corn kernel samples revealed that 88% were contaminated with fumonisins, with an average positive concentration of 3,118 ppb. Additionally, 72% of samples contained DON, averaging 646 ppb, and 48% were tainted with zearalenone, averaging 130 ppb.
These regions are particularly vulnerable due to climatic conditions and agricultural practices that favor mycotoxin growth.
Central Europe, the Middle East, and North Africa also saw a worrying uptick in contamination levels, signaling a need for heightened vigilance and proactive management strategies.
The survey provides detailed insights into species-specific risks, with poultry, swine, and ruminants all facing varying degrees of threat from mycotoxin contamination.
According to the report, emerging mycotoxins, which were previously undetected or less understood, are now being identified thanks to advanced testing methods such as Spectrum 380 and Spectrum Top 50. These tools enable more comprehensive detection and analysis, helping feed producers and farmers better understand and mitigate risks.
Ursula Hofstetter, Head of Mycotoxin Risk Management at DSM-Firmenich, emphasized the critical need for effective mycotoxin management strategies.
“Mycotoxins pose a serious threat to animal welfare, productivity, and the sustainability of agriculture. Frequent testing and a multi-strategy approach are essential to safeguard the profitability and safety of the feed industry and animal protein sectors,” she said.
Since 2004, DSM-Firmenich has been at the forefront of tracking mycotoxin contamination in feed ingredients, providing valuable data to stakeholders worldwide. The company’s annual survey serves as a critical resource for understanding trends, regional prevalence, and the evolving nature of mycotoxin risks.
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