Mycotoxins is the collective name given to toxic chemical products of the vital activity of some aerobic organisms. They are known in the literature by various names, such as: simple fungi, molds, micromycetes, toxigenic fungi or mold fungi.

Mycotoxins in animal feed pose significant challenges, impacting animal health, productivity, and profitability.

1. Animal Health Issues:

1.1. Toxicity: Mycotoxins can cause a range of health problems in animals, including liver damage, immune suppression, and reproductive issues.

1.2. Reduced growth rates: Chronic exposure to mycotoxins can lead to stunted growth and poor feed efficiency, impacting overall productivity.

1.3. Increased mortality: Severe contamination can result in high mortality rates, particularly in young or vulnerable animals.

2. Economic losses:

2.1. Decreased productivity: Health issues caused by mycotoxins can reduce milk yield in dairy cows, egg production in poultry, and weight gain in livestock, leading to financial losses.

2.2. Treatment costs: Addressing the health impacts of mycotoxin exposure often involves veterinary costs, medication, and additional feed supplements.

3. Product safety: Mycotoxin contamination can affect the marketability of animal products such as meat, milk, and eggs, leading to potential market rejection.
4. Consumer confidence: Ensuring that animal products are free from mycotoxins is essential for maintaining consumer trust and market access.