Quantitative assessment of the most common mycotoxins found in commercial poultry feed

Abstract

The presence of mycotoxin in poultry feed is critical, as these toxic compounds produced by molds, can severely impact poultry health, productivity, and the overall safety of poultry products for human consumption. Mycotoxins in poultry feed can be transferred to human food through poultry products. This study analyzed a total of 18 samples of poultry feed used in broiler rearing received from a combined feed factory in the county of Hunedoara which were analyzed for the detection of Aflatoxin B1 (AFB1), Deoxynivalenol (DON), Fumonisin (FUM), and Ochratoxin A (OTA). Samples were collected in December 2023 and treated with mycotoxin inhibitors Minazel 0,2%, and B.I.O.Tox 0,1%. The determination of the four mycotoxins was carried out using the ELISA technique and the RIDASCREEN kits. AFB1 and DON levels did not differ significantly regarding the two inhibitors used. Regarding the FUM levels, they had an average value of 0.47µg/kg in the feeds treated with Minazel 0.2%, in contrast to those treated with B.I.O.Tox 0.1%, which had an average value of 1.4 µg/kg. Reducing mycotoxins in poultry feed is crucial for sustainable poultry farming and environmental responsibility.