Learn how mycotoxins in feed can impact poultry health and how to protect your flock with preventive measures and feed additives.

Mycotoxins are an invisible yet dangerous enemy that can enter poultry feed and harm the entire flock. These toxins are produced by certain types of mold that grow on grains and feed under specific conditions. Even though mycotoxins are not always easy to detect visually, their consequences can become evident when the flock suffers from diseases, reduced productivity, and even death. In this article, we will discuss how to recognize the danger of mycotoxins, assess their risks, and protect your flock.

Mycotoxins are toxic chemical compounds produced by fungi on grain crops and other feeds when conditions favor their growth, particularly in high humidity and warm temperatures. The most dangerous mycotoxins for poultry are produced by the fungi Fusarium, Aspergillus, and Penicillium.

• Moist or damaged crops can be contaminated by mold directly in the field.
• Improper storage of grain or feed, especially in high humidity, creates conditions for fungal growth.
• Processing and storage without proper humidity and ventilation control can also lead to mycotoxin accumulation.

Thus, even the best-looking feed may contain hidden threats that negatively affect the productivity of your farm.

Mycotoxins are not only toxic, but they can also affect poultry health in various ways. Consequences range from growth suppression and weakened immunity to high mortality rates in the flock. Key risks of mycotoxins include:

• Weakened immune system: Birds become more susceptible to bacterial and viral infections as mycotoxins lower immunity.
• Reduced productivity: Birds affected by mycotoxins consume feed but derive less benefit from it, growing slower and laying fewer eggs.
• Damage to internal organs: Some mycotoxins negatively affect the liver, kidneys, and intestines, potentially leading to bird mortality.
• Reproductive issues: Mycotoxins can cause fertility and egg quality problems.

Several main types of mycotoxins are hazardous for poultry. Let's look at some of them:

• Aflatoxins: Cause immune suppression, liver dysfunction, weight loss, and reduced productivity.
• Ochratoxins: Affect kidneys and liver, causing toxicity and loss of appetite.
• Trichothecenes (e.g., T-2 toxin): Cause ulcers in the digestive system and severe weight loss.
• Zearalenone: Has estrogen-like effects, leading to reproductive issues in poultry.

Understanding the types of mycotoxins and their potential consequences helps farmers better assess risks to their flock.

Not all adsorbents are equally effective against all types of mycotoxins. Each type of toxin has unique properties, so a specially selected adsorbent is required for its effective removal from the bird's body. An incorrect choice of additive will not only fail to solve the problem but can also result in significant costs without results.

FOR EXAMPLE:

• Bentonite effectively adsorbs aflatoxins but is less effective against trichothecenes or ochratoxins.
• Zeolite can partially bind zearalenone but is not optimal for working with trichothecenes or aflatoxins.
• Organic detoxifiers (enzymes or specific molecules) are effective against a wide range of mycotoxins but should be combined with mineral adsorbents to enhance efficacy.

For each type of mycotoxin, choosing the appropriate adsorbent that can bind and remove toxins from the bird's body is essential. This is not just a matter of feed quality but also about the effective use of funds and results for the entire flock. Excessive spending on unsuitable additives is money thrown away.

Preventing mycotoxin poisoning starts with a careful approach to feed selection and proper control of storage conditions. Here are the main steps to protect your flock:

1. Regular Feed Testing

• Perform feed and raw material analysis for mycotoxins, especially if there are changes in bird behavior or productivity.
• Engage certified laboratories to obtain accurate results.

2. Maintain Proper Storage Conditions

• Control humidity and temperature in storage areas, as excess moisture promotes mold growth.
• Store grain and feed in airtight, well-ventilated facilities.

3. Use Mycotoxin-Binding Additives

• Some feed additives, particularly mycotoxin binders, effectively block toxins, preventing absorption in the bird's digestive system.
• Consider adsorbents and enzyme-based additives that may reduce the impact of mycotoxins.

4. Feed Control and Rotation

• Regularly update feeds, especially during warm seasons, to prevent mold accumulation.
• Choose trusted feed suppliers who provide safety information and mycotoxin analysis.

Additional protection against mycotoxins is provided by special feed additives that can block, adsorb, or inactivate toxins. Some of the most effective include:

• Mineral adsorbents (e.g., bentonite, zeolite): Bind mycotoxins in the gastrointestinal tract, reducing absorption.
• Biological detoxifiers: Certain enzymes or bacteria can help break down toxins into safe components.
• Antioxidants: Added to protect poultry organs from the toxic effects caused by mycotoxins.

These additives can significantly reduce the negative impact of mycotoxins on poultry health, especially during periods when the risk of toxins in feed is high.

Symptoms of mycotoxicosis can vary depending on the type of mycotoxin; however, there are general signs that indicate intoxication:

• Loss of appetite and lethargy
• Poor weight gain or reduced productivity
• Digestive system issues (weight loss, diarrhea)
• High mortality rate among young birds
• Deterioration of egg quality and reduced laying rate

If these signs are observed, it is vital to test the feed and take appropriate measures to prevent the spread of the problem across the flock.