dsm-firmenich Mycotoxin Survey: January to June 2025

A comprehensive analysis reveals ongoing mycotoxin risks across key regions globally.

A total of 10,868 samples were meticulously collected and analyzed from 81 countries, resulting in a staggering 53,382 analyses.

Key Findings

The survey highlights that deoxynivalenol (DON), zearalenone (ZEN), and fumonisins (FUM) are the most frequently detected mycotoxins. The regions exhibiting the highest contamination levels include:

• North America: Livestock faces significant risks from DON and ZEN, with occurrence rates at 78% and 83%, respectively.
• Central & South America: High levels of FUM contamination have been observed, averaging around 2,000 ppb.
• South Asia: Aflatoxins were detected in a staggering 85% of samples.
• China/Taiwan: FUM was prevalent in 98% of samples, with East Asia reporting a complete 100% occurrence rate.
• Central Europe: DON showed an 85% prevalence, while Southern Europe faced challenges from Aflatoxins (54%) and FUM (76%).

Expert Insights

Ursula Hofstetter, Head of Mycotoxin Risk Management at dsm-firmenich, stated:

“This year’s findings once again highlight the widespread and persistent nature of mycotoxin contamination in feed ingredients across the globe. With risks continuing to pose a threat to animal welfare, productivity, and sustainability, proactive risk management and regular monitoring are more important than ever to maintain the profitability of both the feed industry and animal protein production sectors.”

Survey Highlights

The survey provides additional insights, including:

• Prevalence levels for each mycotoxin in specific regions.
• Global and local risk assessments for each mycotoxin.
• The potential risks posed to various animal species.
• Comparative analysis of prevalence levels from January to June 2024.
• Information on Spectrum 380®, the advanced mycotoxin detection method utilized as a key research tool.
• A detailed overview of the most frequent mycotoxins, including their masked and modified forms, and emerging mycotoxins through the use of the Spectrum Top® 50 method.

About the Survey

Since 2004, dsm-firmenich has engaged in annual assessments of feed samples worldwide to monitor and understand the contamination levels of various mycotoxins in feed ingredients. This vital information is compiled and shared in the annual dsm-firmenich World Mycotoxin Survey.

Mycotoxins are naturally occurring toxins produced by fungi, contaminating feed raw materials in the field and during storage. The ingestion of mycotoxins by animals can lead to severe health issues, including reproductive impairment, digestive disorders, carcinogenic effects, and diminished performance.

Download the Survey

For further details and to access the dsm-firmenich World Mycotoxin Survey from January to June 2025, click here.

Image credit: dsm-firmenich