Mycotoxin contamination can severely impact grain storage, dry matter and total mixed ration (TMR) quality, posing significant risks to livestock and humans consuming impacted products. To mitigate these risks, effective mycotoxin analysis and testing strategies are essential, ensuring safe, high-quality feed and efficient, profitable production.

Understanding mycotoxins in grain storage

Grain silos play a crucial role in protecting harvested grains, but improper storage can encourage mold growth, leading to harmful mycotoxins. High concentrations of aflatoxin B1, deoxynivalenol (DON) and fumonisins are particularly concerning in stored grains such as corn, wheat and barley. These toxins, especially in high concentrations, can compromise milk production in dairy cows and reduce the quality of TMR diets.

Regular mycotoxin detection using advanced testing methods like LC-MS/MS (liquid chromatography-tandem mass spectrometry) provides precise insights into contamination levels, ensuring grain safety.

Best practices for reducing mycotoxin risks in storage

1. Cleaning and fumigation: Clean silos before storage to eliminate fungal spores.
2. Moisture control: Keep moisture below 14% to prevent mold proliferation.
3. Temperature regulation: Maintain cool, stable temperatures in storage facilities
4. Aeration and ventilation: Ensure proper airflow in grain silos to reduce humidity.
5. Regular mycotoxin testing: Use high-quality test kits and routine analysis to detect contamination early.

Insights from the Alltech 2024 Harvest Analysis across the regions

The 2024 growing season brought unique challenges and opportunities across key agricultural regions, with fluctuating weather patterns and varying crop conditions.

Europe

The latest Alltech European Harvest Analysis revealed key mycotoxin risks affecting grain and forage storage across Europe:

• Central and Southeastern Europe showed high contamination levels of aflatoxin B1 in corn, with some samples exceeding 500 ppb.
• Type B trichothecenes were seen in barley and wheat, with barley exhibiting the highest risk. DON was a major concern.
• In forages, corn silage showed increased risk from Penicillium mycotoxins and trichothecenes.
• Multi-mycotoxin presence was a concern. An average of six different mycotoxins were detected per sample, emphasizing the need for comprehensive testing.

United States

The United States saw regional weather variability, with significant weather changes affecting crop health and mycotoxin levels in 2024:

• All samples contained two or more mycotoxins, up from 97% last year.
• Fusarium molds increased due to heavy rainfall in the upper Midwest.
• Type B trichothecenes averaged 1,836 ppb, with a maximum of 43,717 ppb.
• Zearalenone averaged 102 ppb and peaked at 2,134 ppb.
• Emerging mycotoxins averaged 100 ppb and peaked at 4,300 ppb.

Canada

Similarly to the United States, Canada also experienced significant weather variability across the provinces. Some of the key insights from 2024 include:

• 2024 saw an increase in mycotoxin levels compared to 2023.
• In corn silage:
  • Zearalenone was detected in almost all samples, peaking at 1,369 ppb.
  • DON continues to be a risk, particularly in Eastern Canada
• In British Columbia, Fusarium mycotoxins were detected, including T2-HT2 toxins, deoxynivalenol, zearalenone and emerging mycotoxins.
• Barley in prairies showed a higher prevalence and higher concentrations of mycotoxins than wheat, posing added challenges for farmers.

These global findings reinforce the importance of proactive risk management strategies to safeguard livestock health and feed quality.

Species considerations

• For dairy farmers, the elevated levels of aflatoxins in corn in Central and Southeastern Europe are a primary concern, as they affect lactating cows. Type B trichothecenes can also significantly impact a dairy operation’s efficiency and profitability.
• Pigs are one of the most susceptible species to mycotoxin contamination, so the ongoing presence of Fusarium toxins such as DON and zearalenone will present management challenges.
• In poultry farming, mycotoxins in feed are contributing to a decline in average daily gain and egg quality.

Advanced mycotoxin detection methods

With the increasing prevalence of multi-mycotoxin contamination, adopting advanced analytical methods is crucial. Alltech® RAPIREAD™ and Alltech 37+® services are available to provide comprehensive testing solutions. LC-MS/MS testing enables accurate detection of multiple mycotoxins, providing precise data for feed safety management. Rapid test kits also allow for quick on-site screening, helping producers take immediate corrective action.

Ensuring feed safety

Mycotoxin contamination affects livestock performance, feed quality and farm profitability. High concentrations in diets reduce nutritional value, weaken immune systems, and decrease productivity.

By integrating comprehensive mycotoxin testing protocols, proper storage techniques, and effective feed management, producers can safeguard feed quality.

Protect yourself against mycotoxin risk

Sign up to download the full report here: https://www.alltech.com/harvest-analysis. You’ll also gain access to other resources, including:

• A video interview with insights from Alltech experts
• Downloadable articles covering various facets of this important topic
• Meta-analyses summarizing findings of multiple studies

Supporting materials are also available at 2024 Harvest Analysis Resources and knowmycotoxins.com.

These essential tools will empower you to make the most effective mycotoxin control decisions during the upcoming feeding season.

About the authors:

Evie Johns is the digital content specialist within the Technology Group at Alltech. She is responsible for planning and delivering high-quality content for all technologies and services alongside the Technology Group marketing leads and wider Alltech creative team. Evie holds a master's degree in psychiatry and has a background in the finance and agriculture sectors. She is based in Stamford, U.K.

Chloe Chisholm is the content manager for the Technology Group at Alltech. In this role, she is responsible for planning and delivering compelling content for all technologies and services in collaboration with the Technology Group marketing leads and wider Alltech creative team. Chloe has been with Alltech since 2022, previously supporting the Mycotoxin Management team as a digital marketing specialist. Chloe holds a degree in English language and literature from Brighton University and is based in Stamford, U.K.

[DUNBOYNE, Ireland] – Alltech is a global leader in animal nutrition, backed by 45 years of scientific research. The company produces premium feed additive products and works with global regulatory agencies to meet their requirements. For more than a decade, the company’s attenuated total reflectance Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy (ATR–FTIR) chelation assay has been relied upon by the industry to ensure that only the highest-quality products enter the market, to ensure fair market competition, and to prevent feed additive fraud.

“With new trace mineral chelate products continuously being developed, in addition to products with increased mineral concentration, the use of validated assays such as that developed by Alltech will ensure that such chelates meet EU regulatory requirements,” said Dr. Colm Moran, chief regulatory officer at Alltech. “This further adds to their safety and efficacy characteristics. Apart from enabling producers to meet regulatory requirements, assessment of such chelates via this assay will enable the EU to combat feed additive fraud. In doing so, the EU can further protect its agricultural sector by upholding standards through robust monitoring and rigorous enforcement of regulations.”

The process of complexing or chelating elements such as zinc or manganese to generate a trace mineral chelate typically involves reacting inorganic mineral salts with a suitable bonding group such as a peptide or amino acid, after which the mineral becomes part of a biologically stable structure. The chemistry behind chelation has created a great deal of confusion in the animal feed industry.

“Establishing the degree of complexation is important for both regulatory and practical purposes. Just as regulatory agencies require complete characterisation of medicinal products, similar data is necessary for trace mineral chelates to ensure their safety and efficacy,” said Dr. Richard Murphy, research director at Alltech. “If the metal ion is not complexed, its use will confer no additional benefit over that of a metal salt. Additionally, control methods allowing for the detection of products which are merely blends of carrier and inorganic salts are important to prevent the sale of fraudulent materials.”

In 2017, researchers at the Alltech European Bioscience Centre in Dunboyne, Ireland, assessed several different methodologies to determine the degree of metal complexation in commercially available chelates of protein hydrolysate (proteinates), thereby enabling more complete characterisation and control of these products. Potential methodologies which were identified included both the ATR–FTIR and powder X–Ray diffraction (PXRD). Both techniques are well established and widely available, and data can be acquired rapidly. They are also non-destructive, so that the same sample can be analysed by both methods in different laboratories.

Subsequent to this, the method was published under peer review (Cantwell et al., 2017) and made available to the industry as a whole, enabling other manufacturers to independently assess their own products. Additional work by Byrne et al., (2023) extended on the earlier work and validated the assay for use with higher concentration trace mineral chelates of protein hydrolysate.

The validated ATR-FTIR spectroscopy method is product specific, and while its use is applicable to the general class of chelates referred to by EFSA as “chelates of protein hydrolysate” (proteinates), the published assay has only been verified for the proteinate Bioplex®, produced by Alltech. As the characteristics of any proteinate will depend on the protein source used to produce the hydrolysate, the hydrolysis process, and the percentage of metal present, the assay will need to be validated and verified in a product-specific fashion.

“Product-specific assay validation is critical in this instance as the hydrolysis procedure plays a critical role in the production of proteinate products and varies greatly between manufacturers,” said Murphy. “As such, to obtain accurate data on the extent of chelation for specific chelate products, generation of appropriate standards and calibration curves, along with method verification and validation procedures, must be done for each specific product type.”

For more information about Alltech’s mineral management solutions, visit alltech.com/en-ie/mineral-management.

With chicken meat being a great source of protein and one of the most readily available to the human population, broiler producers perform an essential role in meeting the increasing global demand for animal protein. Chicken is one of the less expensive types of meats, meaning that broiler chicken producers are already doing a great job in the fight to produce more from less. However, the increased demand for protein comes along with increased awareness of climate change and the impact that agriculture has on greenhouse gas emissions, meaning there is a drive for more sustainable chicken production.

Producing more protein from less

Global warming is proceeding at such a rate that it is undeniable that human activities have produced gases that are trapping the sun’s energy, leading to more intense weather events, reducing biodiversity, and disrupting humans’ current way of life. Therefore, as the poultry industry works to meet the increasing global demand for animal protein, it needs to simultaneously reduce its impact on the environment.

65-75% of the carbon footprint of a broiler production system comes from feed; therefore, effective poultry nutrition plays an essential part in decreasing carbon emissions. By using innovation and technology to find solutions to improve feed efficiency, we can enable chickens to use less feed to achieve the same output, improving both environmental and economic sustainability. One of these solutions in broiler diets is the use of Mannan rich fraction (MRF), which has been developed to improve the productivity, profitability, and sustainability of broiler production.

Optimum poultry gut health

Maintaining the gut health of broilers is key to getting optimum performance and feed efficiency, helping the chicken to utilize the feed provided to it and reduce its carbon footprint. The modern broiler has huge genetic potential to convert feed into growth with outstanding efficiency. As a producer, the job is to reduce production challenges and stressors that can negatively affect the gut health of the bird, which could prevent birds from reaching their genetic potential.

One of the most critical determinants of gut health is the diversity of the gut microbiome. A diverse microbiome with beneficial microbes acts as a protective barrier covering the gut, thus preventing the colonization of pathogenic bacteria. Promoting a diverse gut microbiome supports the gut health of the animal and improves gut integrity, resulting in a large surface area so the animal can absorb nutrients efficiently. MRF is a natural extract of Saccharomyces cerevisiae, which has been comprehensively researched in poultry. Dietary MRF as a natural substitute to in-feed antibiotics has been shown in several research and commercial studies to promote bird gut health, performance, welfare, and resilience by supporting the immune system, improving nutrient absorption, and protecting against harmful bacteria.

MRF – Many modes of action

These beneficial responses have been attributed to the effects of dietary MRF to optimize gut health and microbial diversity. Research has shown that MRF can influence microbiome diversity by changing the β-diversity and increasing α-diversity, indicating a healthier gut environment with less pathogenic bacteria and more short-chain fatty acid-producing bacteria. Additionally, research has shown that MRF can prevent pathogen colonization in the gut, enhance intestinal morphology, favorably modulate the gut microbiota and microbial metabolism, and stimulate immune development and function. By supporting and maintaining gut health, this ultimately helps improve overall bird health and performance. This has recently been documented in a meta-analysis by Salami et al. (2024), which used data from 27 studies. The paper’s objective was to examine the impact of MRF on broiler performance and the implications for greenhouse gas emissions from chicken production.

Performance

Meta-analysis results showed that broiler performance was significantly improved by MRF when compared to a control:

Environmental impact

From these improvements seen in the meta-analysis results in broiler production, Salami et al. (2024) went on to calculate the effects these improvements would have on the carbon footprint when supplementing with MRF:

Conclusions

In broiler production, economic and environmental sustainability are closely linked, meaning that feeding technologies that improve performance can deliver sustainability benefits that align with several of the United Nations’ Sustainable Development Goals.

With gut health being key for the efficient digestion and absorption of nutrients, it is vital to support and maintain gut health to achieve optimal growth and development of chickens, which can be achieved through the supplementation of the diet with MRF. The results from the above-mentioned meta-analysis demonstrate improved performance parameters with MRF. T

The LCA then showed that the supplementation of MRF can enhance broiler performance, improve profitability, reduce carbon footprint, and meet sustainability goals. With correct supplementation, more cost-effective, environmentally sustainable feeds can be produced, resulting in a greater return on investment and a lower carbon footprint.

References​

1. ​Leigh, R.J., Corrigan, A., Murphy, R.A., Taylor-Pickard, J., Moran, C.A. and Walsh, F. (2024). Yeast mannan rich fraction positively influences microbiome uniformity, productivity associated taxa, and lay performance. Animal Microbiome, 6(1).
2. ‌Leigh, R.J., Corrigan, A., Murphy, R.A. and Walsh, F. (2022). Effect of Mannan-rich fraction supplementation on commercial broiler intestinum tenue and cecum microbiota. Animal microbiome, 4(1).
3. Corrigan, A.; Fay, B.; Corcionivoschi, N.; Murphy, R. Effect of yeast mannan-rich fractions on reducing Campylobacter colonization in broiler chickens. J. Appl. Poult. Res. 2017, 26, 350–357.
4. Corrigan, A.; de Leeuw, M.; Penaud-Frézet, S.; Dimova, D.; Murphy, R. Phylogenetic and functional alterations in bacterial community compositions in broiler ceca as a result of mannan oligosaccharide supplementation. Appl. Environ. Microbiol. 2015, 81, 3460–3470.
5. Hofacre, C.; Beacorn, T.; Collett, S.; Mathis, G. Using competitive exclusion, mannan-oligosaccharide and other intestinal products to control necrotic enteritis. J. Appl. Poult. Res. 2003, 12, 60–64.
6. McCaffrey, C.; Corrigan, A.; Moynagh, P.; Murphy, R. Effect of yeast cell wall supplementation on intestinal integrity, digestive enzyme activity and immune traits of broilers. Br. Poult. Sci. 2021, 62, 771–782.
7. Shashidhara, R.; Devegowda, G. Effect of dietary mannan oligosaccharide on broiler breeder production traits and immunity. Poult. Sci. 2003, 82, 1319–1325.
8. Yang, Y.; Iji, P.; Kocher, A.; Mikkelsen, L.; Choct, M. Effects of dietary mannanoligosaccharide on growth performance, nutrient digestibility and gut development of broilers given different cereal-based diets. J. Anim. Physiol. Anim. Nutr. 2008, 92, 650–659.
9. Delaney, S.; Do, T.T.; Corrigan, A.; Murphy, R.; Walsh, F. Investigation into the effect of mannan-rich fraction supplementation on the metagenome of broiler chickens. Microb. Genom. 2021, 7, 000602.
10. Salami, S.A., Taylor-Pickard, J., Ross, S.A. and Moran, C.A. (2024). A Meta-Analysis of the Effects of Dietary Yeast Mannan-Rich Fraction on Broiler Performance and the Implication for Greenhouse Gas Emissions from Chicken Production. Animals, 14(11), pp.1595–1595. 

About the author:

Dr. Harriet Walker is the poultry specialist for the Alltech Technology Group. Within this role she provides technical support to the sales force and supports and interprets poultry research activities, focusing on providing solutions to optimize animal performance and efficiency.

Before taking this role, Harriet worked in the industry as a poultry nutritionist, developing a solid nutritional and technical knowledge base. She has extensive experience in bird nutrition and management over various farm sizes and poultry types.

Harriet completed her Ph.D. at Nottingham Trent University in 2013, evaluating the gut health and performance of broilers when feeding supplements to reduce antibiotic use, elucidating their mode of action. She also studied animal science at the University of Nottingham, where she completed her third-year dissertation in poultry nutrition in 2009.

I want to learn more about nutrition for poultry.

[LEXINGTON, Ky.] – Alltech is pleased to announce the expansion of its mycotoxin testing program Alltech^® RAPIREAD™, which now includes a new collaboration with Waters™ | VICAM^® and the connection to its analytical tool, Vertu™ TOUCH.  Offering simple touch-screen operation, the Vertu TOUCH lateral flow strip test reader works in concert with VICAM’s Vertu strip tests to deliver full-range quantitative results for up to six major mycotoxins, including aflatoxin, fumonisin, vomitoxin (DON), zearalenone, ochratoxin A and the combination of T-2 and HT-2 toxins.

Mycotoxins, which are natural substances produced by molds and fungi, are more prevalent — and more of a problem in agriculture — than ever before. Results from the 2024 Alltech Harvest Analysis show that more than 95% of crops today are contaminated with at least one mycotoxin and usually two or more, thus demonstrating the need for robust quality control programs. Because these toxins are difficult to detect, they can cause significant damage to animal health before producers even realize they are present, hence a proactive mycotoxin management program is essential.

“Since mycotoxins are a continuous problem for the agricultural industry, it is important for producers to understand the risk to their feed and animals,” said Dr. Alexandra Weaver, global technical support for Alltech. “Rapid tests at the feed mill or on-farm can be used to detect the mycotoxin type or content, but including Alltech RAPIREAD can assist in understanding how the mycotoxins could actually impact the performance, health or profitability of production.”

AlltechRAPIREAD launched in 2020 to enable customers to identify and analyze mycotoxin risks within minutes. This began, and continues, with a collaboration with Neogen^® and integration to its Raptor^® testing device, designed for use on-farm or in feed mills to test individual grains and forages.

Complementing the continued connection with Neogen, this new collaboration with Waters | VICAM using the ONE line of quantitative strip tests will expand analysis capabilities to include complete feed, while keeping Alltech RAPIREAD at the forefront for data collection, risk assessment and consultation.

The Waters | VICAM Vertu TOUCH reader and mixer was launched three years ago with updated features, including a touch screen for ease of use and the technology to detect six mycotoxin levels in a single sample within 10 minutes. This has added a greater opportunity for on-site testing with ease of use, faster time to results and extremely high quality of results.

“Waters | VICAM has been delivering quality mycotoxin testing products to the food and feed industries since 1987,” said Lanny Smith, global sales manager, Waters | VICAM. “The addition of the CT-Connect enables the Vertu TOUCH to work with Alltech’s RAPIREAD system to transfer data securely across all networks.”

To learn more about this collaboration between Alltech and Waters | VICAM, visit the Alltech booth in Hall A #1211 at the International Production & Processing Expo (IPPE). For more information about Alltech’s mycotoxin management solutions, visit knowmycotoxins.com. 

[DUNBOYNE, Ireland] – Alltech, a global leader in biotechnology, has released the complete Alltech 2024 European Harvest Analysis report. The comprehensive final report shows that a combination of heavy early-season rains and late-season droughts has created distinct challenges for crop producers in Central and Southeastern Europe and indicates that overall risk is moderate to high.

“Overall, European grains may have similar or higher risk this year compared to last year. Type B trichothecenes are predominant mycotoxins in corn silage and straw, while the other Penicillium mycotoxins dominate grass silages,” said Dr. Radka Borutova, global technical support for the Technology Group at Alltech. “Together, these mycotoxins could impact animal performance and health, so producers should be aware of these challenges in order to be proactive in their mycotoxin management strategies.”

The final mycotoxin risk will ultimately depend on the animal species and groups being fed and the mycotoxin concentrations and combinations in the finished diet.

Mycotoxins, which are natural substances produced by moulds and fungi, are more prevalent — and more of a problem in agriculture — than ever before. More than 95% of crops today are contaminated with at least one mycotoxin, and usually with two or more. Because these toxins are difficult to detect, they can cause significant damage to animal health before producers even realize they are present. A proactive mycotoxin management programme is essential, and the first step is learning which mycotoxins pose the highest risk in specific regions, crops and species.

The Alltech 2024 European Harvest Analysis programme tests samples of new-crop grains and forages collected from farms or animal feed production sites in 20 countries, ensuring an accurate picture of mycotoxin contamination across the continent. All samples are tested at the leading-edge Alltech 37+™ lab, which can detect the presence of 54 mycotoxins. Corn samples from central and southern Europe are also tested in collaboration with SGS, a global leader in mycotoxin testing and certification.

Other key results from the Alltech 2024 European Harvest Analysis include:

Barley

Samples tested show an average of 6.8 mycotoxins per sample, with 98% containing multiple mycotoxins. The highest-risk mycotoxins are type B trichothecenes, type A trichothecenes and ergot alkaloids.

Wheat

Samples show an average of 7.6 mycotoxins per sample, with 99% containing multiple mycotoxins. The most prevalent mycotoxins are type B and type A trichothecenes.

Forages

Forage samples (grass silage, corn silage and straw) show 3.7 mycotoxins per sample on average, with 78% of samples containing multiple mycotoxins. The most prevalent are type B trichothecenes and Penicillium mycotoxins such as penicillic acid, mycophenolic acid and patulin.

On Nov. 21, Alltech hosted “From Field to Feed: 2024 Crop and Mycotoxin Analysis”, a broadcast streamed live from Alltech’s headquarters in Lexington, Kentucky, U.S. During the broadcast, panellists shared valuable insights for managing risks across the supply chain. Here are the key takeaways:

• Test and monitor: Regularly test crops and feed to understand what’s present and to ensure high quality.
• Leverage weather data: Pay attention to weather patterns and farm-specific conditions to assess potential risks early.
• Use comprehensive information: Gather unbiased data from all aspects of your operation and tailor it to fit your specific needs.
• Combine methods: Utilise both traditional techniques and new technologies to refine processes and ensure feed quality.
• Act proactively: If mycotoxins are present, be proactive with management to ensure high-quality feed production, thus protecting animals and safeguarding your operation’s resilience and success.

Register online at alltech.com/harvest-analysis to gain access to the recording of the broadcast as well as the full 2024 Alltech Harvest Analysis programme, including the complete European report, which is available now.

For more information about Alltech mycotoxin management solutions, visit knowmycotoxins.com.

[LEXINGTON, Ky.] – Preliminary analysis of corn silage samples in the U.S. reveals a high increase in mycotoxin contamination compared to 2023, with all samples containing two or more mycotoxins. Mycotoxins are produced by certain species of molds and are a concern for livestock producers as they can influence feed quality and subsequent animal health and performance. The Alltech 2024 U.S. Harvest Analysis uncovers the true threat mycotoxins pose to animals and producers.

Mycotoxins, which are natural substances produced by molds and fungi, are more prevalent — and more of a problem in agriculture — than ever before. More than 95% of crops today are contaminated with at least one mycotoxin and usually two or more. Because these toxins are difficult to detect, they can cause significant damage to animal health before producers even realize they are present. A proactive mycotoxin management program is essential, and the first step is learning which mycotoxins pose the highest risk in specific regions, crops and species.

The preliminary results of the 2024 analysis deliver an early insight into the mycotoxin landscape. The Alltech U.S. Harvest Analysis, a decade-long initiative, is a comprehensive step in understanding the complexities of new-crop quality, mycotoxin prevalence, and the threat that mycotoxins pose to animals and producers. To determine the most accurate representation of mycotoxin risk across the U.S., samples are collected by Alltech representatives and sent to the company’s headquarters in Kentucky, where the Alltech 37+^® laboratory can detect up to 54 individual mycotoxins.

“The weather pattern for 2024 is a prime driver for the change in corn silage mycotoxin risk. The precipitation over the upper Midwest started early and, in many areas, delayed planting or caused replanting,” said Dr. Max Hawkins, technical support manager with Alltech’s mycotoxin management team. “This excess moisture is a stimulant for Fusarium mold growth, which can produce mycotoxins such as type B trichothecenes, emerging mycotoxins and zearalenone. Overall, the numbers of mycotoxins per sample are 8.3 for 2024 versus 5.3 for 2023. The risk equivalent quantity (REQ), or risk estimate, from all the mycotoxin present is 201.6, or higher risk, vs. 122.7 for 2023.”

Alltech’s REQ is a system that measures the cumulative risk of multiple mycotoxins in feed, making it easier to evaluate contamination. It combines mycotoxin levels into a single value, helping producers manage feed safety and quality.

Weather and mycotoxin risk

The spike in contamination is largely attributed to significant rainfall across the upper Midwest, which created favorable conditions for the growth of Fusarium molds. These molds are responsible for producing various harmful mycotoxins, particularly type B trichothecenes, which pose the highest risk.

Key mycotoxins in 2024 corn silage

• Type B trichothecenes: These mycotoxins have seen a sharp increase, with an average concentration of 1,863 parts per billion (ppb) and a staggering maximum level of 43,717 ppb. In comparison, 2023 averages were notably lower, at 1,014 ppb with a maximum of 29,853 ppb.
• Zearalenone: Levels of zearalenone, known for its estrogenic effects in livestock, also rose significantly in 2024. The average concentration was 102 ppb, with a maximum of 2,134 ppb. In 2023, these values were much lower, at an average of 28 ppb and a maximum of 1,171 ppb.
• Emerging mycotoxins: Samples to date have shown an average of 100 ppb with a peak level of 4,300 ppb, up from 73 ppb and 987 ppb in 2023.

With corn harvest progressing well, the number of samples arriving at the lab are increasing week on week. Early indications are similar to last year, with risk increasing as you move to the East, following the rainfall patterns. This risk is due primarily to Fusarium mycotoxins, type B trichothecenes, fumonisin and zearalenone. These toxins can have a significant impact on monogastric performance, reproduction and overall health. More details on the corn grain samples will follow in the main report in the coming weeks.

Alltech will host a live broadcast, “From Field to Feed: 2024 Crop and Mycotoxin Analysis,” on Nov. 21 at 10:00 a.m. Eastern, streamed live from Alltech’s headquarters in Lexington, Kentucky, U.S. The broadcast will cover:

• Global weather impacts on crops
• Preliminary harvest results from key regions
• Trends in global trade and supply chains
• Practical tips for optimizing your feed decisions
• A live panel discussion

Register online at alltech.com/harvest-analysis to attend the live broadcast and to access the full Harvest Analysis program, as well as the full U.S. report when it is released. For more information about Alltech’s mycotoxin management solutions, visit knowmycotoxins.com

[DUNBOYNE, Ireland] – Alltech, a global leader in biotechnology, has just released an interim report with the preliminary findings of its mycotoxin testing programme, the Alltech 2024 European Harvest Analysis. This report offers early, detailed and actionable insights about this year’s mycotoxin risks.

Mycotoxins, which are natural substances produced by moulds and fungi, are more prevalent — and more of a problem in agriculture — than ever before. More than 95% of crops today are contaminated with at least one mycotoxin, and usually with two or more. Because these toxins are difficult to detect, they can cause significant damage to animal health before producers even realize they are present. A proactive mycotoxin management programme is essential, and the first step is learning which mycotoxins pose the highest risk in specific regions, crops and species.

The Alltech 2024 European Harvest Analysis programme tests samples of new-crop grains and forages collected from farms or animal feed production sites in 20 countries, ensuring an accurate picture of mycotoxin contamination across the continent. All samples are tested at the leading-edge Alltech 37⁺ lab, which can detect the presence of 54 mycotoxins. Corn samples from central and southern Europe are also tested in collaboration with SGS, a global leader in mycotoxin testing and certification.

The newly released interim report shows moderate to high mycotoxin risk so far in 2024, with significant regional variations. This is similar to the results seen at this time last year. Type B trichothecenes and emerging mycotoxins are most prevalent, but type B trichothecenes like deoxynivalenol are bringing the most risk in grains.

Increasing weather fluctuations are a major contributor to today’s rising mycotoxin risks, which vary widely by region. For example, early-season rains and floods followed by late-season droughts have created distinct challenges for crop producers this year across central and southeastern Europe. Some countries, including Hungary, Serbia, Romania and Bulgaria, are showing high levels of aflatoxin B1 in corn grain samples, with concentrations of up to 506 ppb.

“This year's weather in Europe has been extreme and unpredictable, which has been reflected in the behaviour of moulds and the production of mycotoxins. The mycotoxin risk for all animal species is medium to high, and for some mycotoxins, such as aflatoxin B1, even extremely high,” said Dr. Radka Borutova, global technical support for the Technology Group at Alltech. “The application of effective mycotoxin management is the only way to break this deadlock.”

Other key results from the Alltech 2024 European Harvest Analysis so far include:

Wheat and barley

Wheat samples analysed to date are averaging 7.7 mycotoxins per sample, with 99% containing multiple mycotoxins. Barley samples show an average of 6.3 mycotoxins, with 98% of samples containing multiple mycotoxins. The most prevalent mycotoxins in both wheat and barley are emerging mycotoxins and type B trichothecenes. The overall risk for both barley and wheat is moderate.

Straw

For straw, samples tested so far show an average of 5.9 mycotoxins per sample, with 91% of samples containing multiple mycotoxins. The most prevalent are emerging mycotoxins and deoxynivalenol, with the overall risk being high.

Forages

For grass and corn silage, the preliminary findings show 2.9 mycotoxins per sample on average, with 68% of samples containing multiple mycotoxins. The most prevalent are type B trichothecenes and Penicillium mycotoxins such as penicillic acid, mycophenolic acid and patulin, with the overall risk being high.

Once testing and analysis have been completed, the full Alltech 2024 European Harvest Analysis report will be released, giving a more complete and detailed breakdown of key results by region, crop and species.

Alltech will host a live broadcast, “From Field to Feed: 2024 Crop and Mycotoxin Analysis,” on Nov. 21 at 10:00 a.m. EST, streamed live from Alltech’s headquarters in Lexington, Kentucky, U.S. The broadcast will cover:

• Global weather impacts on crops
• Preliminary harvest results from key regions
• Trends in global trade and supply chains
• Practical tips for optimising your feed decisions
• A live panel discussion

Register online at alltech.com/harvest-analysis to attend the live broadcast and to access the full Harvest Analysis programme, including the interim report available now and the full report when it is released.

For more information about Alltech Mycotoxin Management solutions, visit knowmycotoxins.com.

[GUELPH, Canada] – Recent mycotoxin testing in Canadian silages and grains, conducted as part of the Alltech 2024 Canadian Harvest Analysis, is revealing significant regional variability in contamination levels, with corn silage showing particularly high risks.

Mycotoxins, which are natural substances produced by moulds and fungi, are a concern for livestock producers as they can influence feed quality and subsequent animal health and performance. Unfortunately, they are more prevalent — and more of a problem in agriculture — than ever before. More than 95% of crops today are contaminated with at least one mycotoxin, and usually two or more.

Because these toxins are difficult to detect, they can cause significant damage to animal health before producers even realize they are present. A proactive mycotoxin management program is essential, and the first step is learning which mycotoxins pose the highest risk in specific regions, crops and species.

“Canada has experienced a change in weather patterns from last year, particularly of note the greater rainfall across the prairies,” said Dr. Alexandra Weaver, global technical support for Alltech. “As a result, there appears to be greater mycotoxin risk in the Western Canada 2024 harvest than last year. We’ve also noticed continued risk from deoxynivalenol and zearalenone in Eastern Canada, which can impact animal health and performance.”

Other early results from the Alltech 2024 Canadian Harvest Analysis include:

Quebec:
90% of corn silage samples have tested positive for zearalenone (ZEA), with maximum levels reaching 1,369 ppb. Deoxynivalenol (DON) is found in 68% of samples, peaking at 6,782 ppb. T2-HT2 toxins are less common (25%) but still pose a risk.

Ontario:
Wheat samples show a 63% prevalence of DON and 45% for ZEA, with moderate risk levels on average. Corn samples have tested positive for DON with a maximum of over 4 ppm, with levels most problematic for swine, young and breeding animals.

Manitoba:
59% of barley samples contain DON, with maximum levels up to 3,700 ppb. Corn silage shows a 100% prevalence of ZEA, peaking at 1,118 ppb, and a 64% prevalence of DON, with a max of 3,200 ppb.

Saskatchewan:
88% of barley silage samples contain ZEA, and 30% have DON. T2-HT2 toxins also have a presence, at about 43% occurrence. All three mycotoxins average lower risk, but with potential for higher risk levels in some samples.

Alberta:
Barley silage shows lower risks, with ZEA detected in about 22% of samples. Corn silage shows a greater risk from ZEA, in 100% of tested samples and a maximum detection of over 700 ppb. Corn silage also shows a presence for DON and T2-HT2 toxins.

British Columbia:
Corn silage samples show a presence of multiple Fusarium mycotoxins, including DON, T2-HT2 toxins, ZEA, and emerging mycotoxins. On average, DON, T2-HT2 toxins and ZEA have been detected at lower-to-moderate risk for dairy cows. However, some silage samples have shown high risk levels of DON and T2-HT2 toxins.  

Overall, early harvest testing suggests that corn silage may be a higher-risk commodity across Canada. Additionally, barley may have a greater prevalence of mycotoxins, and in higher concentrations, compared to wheat. Although it is too early to provide details on corn grain, producers are reminded that corn is commonly at risk of mycotoxin contamination. As such, animal and feed producers have a need for continued vigilance across grain and silage feed sources.

Alltech will host a live broadcast, “From Field to Feed: 2024 Crop and Mycotoxin Analysis,” on Nov. 21 at 10:00 a.m. EST, streamed live from Alltech headquarters in Lexington, Kentucky, U.S. The broadcast will cover:

• Global weather impacts on crops
• Preliminary harvest results from key regions
• Trends in global trade and supply chains
• Practical tips for optimising your feed decisions
• A live panel discussion

Register online at alltech.com/harvest-analysis to attend the live broadcast and to access the full Harvest Analysis program, as well as the full Canadian report when it is released. For more information about Alltech’s mycotoxin management solutions, visit knowmycotoxins.com.  

[LEXINGTON, Ky.] – Alltech has released its annual Sustainability Report, which demonstrates the actions the company is taking to align its business with its purpose of Working Together for a Planet of Plenty^®, reducing its environmental impact and advancing the United Nations’ Sustainable Development Goals.

Alltech is committed to prioritizing the efficient and profitable production of nutritious food while helping producers worldwide implement solutions to their sustainability and productivity challenges. The Alltech Sustainability Report highlights how Working Together for a Planet of Plenty shapes Alltech’s business — and its future.

“Everything we do is centered on helping us advance our purpose of Working Together for a Planet of Plenty,” said Tara McCarthy, global vice president for ESG at Alltech. “We have made great progress toward our ESG goals, but we know that there is always more work to be done. Alltech team members around the world have shown unwavering commitment to sustainable and ethical business practices. We continue to strive for ambitious ESG targets, find areas for improvement and innovation, and nurture a culture of sustainability.”

Guided by its Planet of Plenty purpose, Alltech is committed to:

• Delivering measurable impact via nutritional technologies and services that maximize producer profitability, production efficiency and sustainability.
• Connecting with global partners to solve high-impact issues and advance sustainable agricultural practices.
• Advocating for the agri-food industry, sharing the sustainable power of science in agri-food via its Planet of Plenty website and through projects like the upcoming documentary World Without Cows.
• Investing in education and research to address issues such as soil health, greenhouse gases, carbon sequestration, methane mitigation, antimicrobial resistance — and more.
• Sharpening its ESG strategy by continually reducing its environmental impact, prioritizing social responsibility and adopting governance practices that ensure transparency and accountability.

Through data and stories from Alltech team members around the world, the 2023 Alltech Sustainability Report emphasizes the role of agriculture in combatting climate change and creating healthy, sustainable food systems. It also includes information about Alltech’s emissions reduction goals and highlights its efforts to improve energy usage, reduce waste, and advance environmental actions in the industry. Additionally, the report outlines the steps Alltech has taken to promote a diverse and inclusive work environment and demonstrates its team members’ efforts to make a difference in the communities in which they live and work.

2023 highlights include:

• Alltech has reduced its Scope 1 and Scope 2 emissions by 19.8% from its 2021 base year. It aims to reduce its Scope 1 and 2 emissions by 42% by 2030 (from its 2021 base year) and its Scope 3 emissions by 25% by 2030 (from its 2023 base year).
• Alltech completed 19 energy efficiency projects. It conducted 31 energy efficiency project feasibility studies and six renewable energy project feasibility studies. The company invested $3.85 million in efficiency projects in 2023, resulting in the reduction of 8,990 metric tons of CO₂e.
• Alltech completed 74 core product life-cycle analyses across its top seven specialty ingredients and 17 production facilities.
• Alltech was awarded three EcoVadis sustainability medals in 2023.
• Alltech Serdán was recertified in 2023 as Empresa Socialmente Responsible (ESR).
• Alltech was accredited by the Pet Sustainability Coalition for the third year in a row.
• Sixty team members participated in the Women in Food & Agriculture Mentorship Program.

“2023 was another milestone year for Alltech as we advanced our mission and vision of Working Together for a Planet of Plenty,” said Dr. Mark Lyons, president and CEO of Alltech. “In the five years since it was launched at the Alltech ONE Conference in Kentucky, Planet of Plenty has become a strategic driver of our business and an accelerator of what is even more important: our impact. Through new partnerships and ongoing collaboration with trusted allies we’ve worked alongside for decades, we continue to drive progress toward our shared goal of a world of abundance for future generations.”

Alltech continues to serve as a voice for the industry, advancing agri-food innovation and highlighting agriculture’s role in nourishing the world and nurturing the planet. Through publications like the Alltech Sustainability Insights Report, the Alltech Sustainability Report, Agri-Food Outlook, Harvest Analysis, Import Risk Analysis and others, the company serves as an industry thought leader and helps to address some of the most pressing issues facing the agri-food community.

Alltech shares the sustainable power of science in agri-food through stories, podcasts, blogs and videos on its Planet of Plenty website. This year, Alltech is promoting Planet of Plenty’s first feature-length documentary, World Without Cows, a three-year exploration of the true impact of cattle on our world.

The film takes viewers to more than 40 locations around the world to hear insights from leading scientists, farmers, economists and other experts about the cultural and economic significance of cattle, their role in nourishing the world and their impact on climate. It aims to broaden the conversation about the role of cattle and to inspire deeper reflection about their role in the vitality of our planet. Learn more at worldwithoutcows.com.

For more information and to download the 2023 Alltech Sustainability Report in full, visit alltech.com/sustainability.

In the latest episode of “Mycotoxin Matters,” host Martin Minchin, commercial marketing director at Alltech, is joined by Dr. Alexandra Weaver and Dr. Jules Taylor-Pickard to delve into some comprehensive meta-analyses conducted by Alltech’s research teams. These analyses focus on the effects of mycotoxins on monogastric animals like pigs and poultry.

Here are the key takeaways from the discussion:

Overview of meta-analyses

Meta-analysis, a statistical method that combines results from multiple studies, has become a vital tool in Alltech’s research. A key benefit of meta-analysis is the ability to simplify complex research, making it easier to make informed decisions based on a thorough review of existing evidence.

Dr. Alexandra Weaver, global technical support at Alltech, highlighted the benefits of meta-analysis: "Meta-analysis allows you to bring all of the different research within a category together and get one overall conclusion."

“It also simplifies research by summarizing many studies into one comprehensive paper, making it easier for readers to interpret and for producers to address issues like mycotoxins more effectively,” added Dr. Jules Taylor-Pickard, technical director, technology group at Alltech.

By gathering data from numerous individual studies, Alltech’s mycotoxin meta-analyses have provided robust insights into the overall impact of mycotoxins and the efficacy of mitigation strategies.

Impact of mycotoxins on animal performance

Mycotoxins, toxic compounds produced by certain types of fungi, pose a significant threat to livestock health and performance. These toxins can contaminate feed, leading to a range of adverse effects on animals, including reduced growth rates, decreased reproductive performance, weakened immune systems, and even mortality. For monogastric animals like pigs and poultry, the presence of mycotoxins in their diet can result in notable declines in productivity, such as reduced egg production and weight in laying hens and impaired growth in broilers and pigs. Addressing mycotoxin contamination through effective mitigation strategies is crucial for maintaining livestock health and farm profitability.

Key mycotoxins affecting monogastric animals include mycotoxins such as aflatoxins, fumonisins, trichothecenes and zearalenone, each bringing a unique set of challenges:

• Aflatoxins can cause liver damage and suppress immune function, leading to increased susceptibility to diseases.
• Fumonisins are known to impair organ function and reduce growth rates.
• Trichothecenes, such as deoxynivalenol (DON), inhibit protein synthesis, causing feed refusal and gastrointestinal issues.
• Zearalenone mimics estrogen, leading to reproductive disorders and reduced fertility in animals.

Understanding these impacts and risk factors — including how various combinations of mycotoxins may cause damage that they would not cause individually — is crucial for developing effective mitigation strategies to protect animal health and the productivity of any livestock production.

In this podcast, Dr. Weaver and Dr. Taylor-Pickard highlight how mycotoxins negatively affect animal performance and discuss what strategies may be helpful in combating the problem. For example, in the meta-analysis carried out by Alltech, in a group of laying hens under a mycotoxin challenge, the mycotoxins were found to reduce egg production by 6.3 percentage points and decrease egg weight by 1.95 grams. However, the administration of yeast cell wall extract (YCWE) to another group under a mycotoxin challenge significantly mitigated these effects, improving egg production by 4.24 percentage points and increasing egg weight by 1.37 grams.

Broader research findings

Alltech’s meta-analysis research extends beyond laying hens to include broilers and pigs. Key findings include:

• Broilers: Mycotoxins potentially increase the carbon footprint of production. Using YCWE improved feed efficiency and reduced mortality, thus lowering the carbon footprint.
• Pigs: Even mycotoxin levels below regulatory guidelines negatively impacted performance, notably average daily gain. Utilizing YCWE significantly improved growth metrics.

Translating research to practical applications

Dr. Taylor-Pickard emphasizes the importance of translating scientific findings into practical solutions for livestock producers. Meta-analyses make it easier to understand complex data and apply it effectively on farms, enhancing both animal welfare and farm profitability. For instance, the application of meta-analysis results has been shown to provide an ROI of 4.7 to 1 in laying hens.

Future directions in research

The podcast episode also explores future research directions, particularly in the increasingly important area of sustainability. Alltech’s commitment to using advanced techniques like nutrigenomics allows for deeper insights into how nutritional interventions can improve animal health and productivity while addressing consumer concerns and regulatory requirements.

Conclusion

Alltech’s extensive meta-analyses underscore the significant impact of mycotoxins on livestock and the effectiveness of mitigation strategies like YCWE. These insights not only enhance our understanding of mycotoxins but also provide actionable strategies to improve livestock production and sustainability. As research continues, Alltech remains at the forefront, integrating advanced scientific methods to address the evolving challenges in livestock production.

🎧Listen to the Mycotoxin Matters podcast episode here.

About the author:

Chloe Chisholm is the content manager for the Technology Group at Alltech. In this role, she is responsible for planning and delivering compelling content for all technologies and services in collaboration with the Technology Group marketing leads and wider Alltech creative team. Chloe has been with Alltech since 2022, previously supporting the Mycotoxin Management team as a digital marketing specialist. Chloe holds a degree in English language and literature from Brighton University and is based in Stamford, U.K.