Survey says fumonisins still abundant in high concentrations in raw commodities

The latest annual Biomin Mycotoxin Survey has revealed that, 2018, 68% of samples analysed tested positive for fumonisins, with maize in particular subject to effects from these mycotoxins. 

“In recent years, fumonisins proved to be the most prevalent mycotoxins globally among the major agriculturally relevant mycotoxins, which also include aflatoxins, zearalenone, deoxynivalenol, T-2 and ochratoxin A,” observed Alexandro Marchioro, Product Manager for Mycotoxin Risk Management at Biomin

Fumonisins, which are produced by Fusarium proliferatum and F. verticilloides, predominantly contaminate corn and corn by-products. These moulds are also responsible for producing the second most commonly found mycotoxin, deoxynivalenol, also known as vomitoxin. 

“The shift in the composition of the mycotoxin threat is noticeable when comparing data sets over the years. Additionally, the co-contamination of mycotoxins is a considerable point we should bear in mind,” stated Mr. Marchioro. 

Regional examples of mycotoxin risk:

• In North America, deoxynivalenol is the most prevalent, reaching 67% of total samples with an average of 735 parts per billion (ppb). 
• 96% of corn samples in Asia tested positive for fumonisins with maximum concentrations of 47,485 ppb. Aflatoxin remains a topic in Asia with 44% of prevalence in finished feed. 
• In Argentina, the average concentration of fumonisins rose from 2800 ppb in 2017 to 4762 ppb in 2018. 
• In Europe, the most prevalent mycotoxin is deoxynivalenol.

“These data underscore the importance of monitoring mycotoxin contamination, as mycotoxin occurrence varies in different regions,” Alexandro Marchioro explained. 

To access the survey in full, click here.