Impact of mycotoxin contamination in the animal feed industry

Abstract

Mycotoxin contamination generally affects a large number of raw materials and finished feed intended for animal production. The economic impact on livestock production encompasses both, the cost of eliminating contaminated feed and the reduction in animal productivity. Therefore, the increase in veterinary care costs and technical efforts aimed at reducing mycotoxins negative effects. Cereals and by-products constitute the main ingredients of finished feed in production animals. Food processing affects mycotoxin distribution and concentration. The mycotoxin distribution in cereal processing procedures is a worldwide problem due to the high economic and health impacts. The use of a safe diet in which the risk of mycotoxin contamination can be minimized and the cost/benefit is accurately quantified should allow the maximization of herd productivity. The present review intends to address the problem of animal feed contamination describing the impact on animal health and productivity. Moreover, the economic impact generated by mycotoxins and their control in the animal feed industry was considered.