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Understanding Mycotoxins in Maize and Its Byproducts
Maize, a staple in poultry and swine diets, poses significant overexposure risk due to its vulnerability to mould infestations during cultivation and storage. This has led to various mycotoxin contaminations, primarily from notorious fungi like Fusarium and Aspergillus, spawning a group referred to as the “Big 6” mycotoxins: aflatoxins, ochratoxins, T-2/HT-2 toxins, deoxynivalenol, fumonisins, and zearalenone. Emerging mycotoxins, including moniliformin and fusaric acid, also play a critical role in animal health.
The Big Impact of Mycotoxins
Recent analysis of average mycotoxin levels from global samples between 2020 and 2024 has provided crucial insight. Fumonisins were the most prevalent, presenting an average concentration of 1073 ppb, surpassing other mycotoxins in maize. Deoxynivalenol and zearalenone also presented notable levels, indicating widespread contamination that can affect both animal health and feed safety.
Maize DDGS: A Concentration Effect
When maize is processed into Distillers Dried Grains with Solubles (DDGS), concentrations of mycotoxins significantly rise. Data shows that ochratoxins can increase by as much as 7.7 times. This phenomenon occurs because non-fermentable components, including mycotoxins, are left behind post-ethanol extraction, amplifying the risks associated with DDGS in poultry diets. It’s paramount for poultry professionals to monitor these levels closely, given the potential health implications for livestock.
Comparing with Maize Gluten Meal
Similarly, mycotoxin levels in maize gluten meal are also higher compared to untreated maize. The highest concentration increase noted was for ochratoxins, which can rise by up to six times. The increase in mycotoxins in both DDGS and gluten meal originates from their location in the grain structure and their solubility properties, which can influence extraction processes during production.
Future Insights and Best Practices
For poultry industry professionals, understanding these contamination levels is crucial for implementing preventive measures and ensuring the safety of animal feed. Regular testing of feed ingredients for mycotoxins is essential to mitigate risks associated with contaminated feeds that can negatively impact animal health and ultimately, yield.
Knowledge about mycotoxin levels in feed is not just a regulatory concern but also a pathway to improved animal welfare and operational efficiency. Consequently, investing in reliable testing technology and monitoring systems will not only safeguard livestock health but also enhance overall farm productivity.
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