Safe Food Net
The aim of this research was to review (and where possible improve/refine
current rapid screening methods for the mycotoxin T-2 and its metabolites in
cereals for human consumption.
Researchers engaged with the relevant sector of the cereal processing industry in
Ireland and the UK, and the relevant primary production sector, to gain detailed,
valuable information.
The research conducted was designed to clarify deficits in T-2 toxin control in the
relevant processing and primary production sectors, evaluate the robustness of
current analytical detection and control methods therein, augment same if deemed
necessary, and implement workable T-2 toxin control solutions at sectoral level.
Objectives
The specific objectives of the research project were to:
• Conduct a literature review of the most up-to-date scientific and
regulatory data for T-2 toxin and its metabolites, the specific environmental conditions required for their production, and the impact of climate change on their occurrence and distribution.
• Undertake a thorough analysis of the currently available commercial rapid analytical techniques for the screening of T-2 and HT-2 toxins in cereals for direct human consumption.
• Undertake a survey of the relevant processing and primary production sectors to determine what testing they currently conduct for mycotoxins, to fully understand the shortfalls in relation to mycotoxin monitoring and control within the industry.
Conduct a survey of oats and barley (n≥100) using mass spectrometry to identify contamination levels of, not only the mycotoxins of interest, i.e., T-2 and HT-2, but also all other regulated mycotoxins including aflatoxins, deoxynivalenol, zearalenone, fumonisins and ochratoxin A.
• Perform a thorough evaluation of a selected number of rapid test kits to ascertain fitness for purpose and determine how to adapt the most robust methods for better performance. If required, undertake a training workshop on the use of the best performing rapid testing kits.
• Engage with stakeholders to discuss the implications of the findings of
the project and produce a series of conclusions and recommendations
for stakeholders on the island of Ireland.
FoodWorld 