Mycotoxins are toxic chemical compounds produced by molds present on feeds and their raw materials. Pigs are particularly susceptible to a range of mycotoxins, including deoxynivalenol (DON), zearalenone (ZEA), T-2, and fumonisins (FUM), although they are less affected by ochratoxin (OTA) or aflatoxin. While clinical mycotoxicosis has become less prevalent due to efficient screening and control measures, the subclinical effects continue to negatively impact pig health and performance.
This case study aims to assess the importance of subclinical mycotoxicosis in breeding herds in the Netherlands. A small-scale prevalence study was conducted to gather data and analyze its implications.
The study was carried out on 6 breeding herds located in the Netherlands.
The study spanned one year, from September 2022 to September 2023.
Mycotoxin analysis was conducted on:
The mycotoxins analyzed included Ochratoxin A, T-2/HT-2, Fumonisins (FUM), Deoxynivalenol (DON), and Zearalenone (ZEA). These analyses were conducted using LC-MS/MS in Kemin's customer laboratory services (CLS) lab, with reporting through the Mycotoxin Today app, available for Kemin customers.
In total, 98 samples were evaluated, yielding the following results:
Additionally, 52% of the samples were contaminated with two or more mycotoxins. Notably, 11% of the samples exceeded the risk level for DON in pig feeds, and another 11% exceeded the risk level for ZEA. Mycotoxins' prevalence was seasonal—for example, FUM was more prevalent in summer.
In two farms, necrotic tails were observed regularly. At these farms, peak contamination levels of up to 47 ppm of T-2 and HT-2 combined were noted at specific time points. The study found no difference in DON and ZEA prevalence between suspicious and control farms, suggesting that subclinical mycotoxicosis is common. T-2 contamination may be a contributing factor in clinical symptoms such as necrotic tails.
Figure 1: Average mycotoxin contaminations at different sampling points per farm
The study concluded that although there are no European Union (EU) guidance levels for T-2 in pig feeds, the presence of T-2/HT-2 should not be ignored. The findings emphasize the importance of ongoing monitoring and management to mitigate the impact of mycotoxins on pig health and performance.
