90% of samples showed presence of DON
The analysis shows that of the global crop samples collected in 2019, more than 90% had a quantifiable presence (>100 ppb) of DON, with between 80 and 90% of samples showing FUMO, AFLA, OTA and ZEA T-2 levels were lowest, at about 70%. (Figure 1). The 2019 mycotoxin risk analysis includes analysis for individual ingredients, complete feeds and silages including small grains (wheat and barley) which tested at as high as 88% for DON, to 59% for AFLA. Among byproducts, concentrations in DDGS were significantly higher than in maize, with levels approaching 5,000 ppb. Looking at protein meals, concentrations of mycotoxins were relatively low compared to cereal grains. However, soybean meal is used at about 25-30% of monogastric diets, and hence can contribute significantly to concentration of toxins in final feed. Sunflower meal showed the greatest concentration of FUMO while levels of DON, AFLA and ZEA were lower. Among silages, 100% of maize and grass silage samples showed mycotoxin contamination with concentrations that can cause toxicity in ruminant animals.
