Mycotoxins produced by certain Aspergillus moulds, most commonly Aspergillus flavus and Aspergillus parasiticus. The major forms of aflatoxins are aflatoxin B1, aflatoxin B2, aflatoxin G1 and aflatoxin G2. Aflatoxin B1 is the most common and most toxic in both animals and humans. It is a carcinogen so out of all the mycotoxins is the most regulated in both animal feedstuffs and human foods. Cattle convert aflatoxin B1 to aflatoxin M1.

Aflatoxins

Cattle convert aflatoxin B1 to aflatoxin M1, with aflatoxin M1 (also a carcinogen) passing in to milk for human consumption.

Aflatoxin M1

In the presence of oxygen.

Aerobic

A mycotoxin adsorbent is a feed additive capable of binding to mycotoxins in the digestive tract of animals, preventing the absorption of the mycotoxins into the animal’s bloodstream. The adsorbent and the bound mycotoxins leave the animal’s body via the faeces. Also called a binder.

Adsorbent37+ Analysis

A mycotoxin produced by various Fusarium moulds, including Fusarium graminearium. Binds to oestrogen receptors, causing reduced reproductivity in all species, both female and male.

Zearalenone

Microscopic, single celled fungi that reproduce asexually by the process of budding.

Yeast

An animal that has been taken away from its mother. Pigs that have been weaned and are under 30kg are the species most commonly referred to as weaners.

Weaner

A mycotoxin, classified as a type A trichothecence, produced by various Fusarium moulds. Causes feed refusal and gastrointestinal lesions in cattle and gizzard erosions and lesions of the upper digestive tract in poultry, causing reduced productivity in many species.

T-2 Toxin

Diarrhoea. A common problem in calves. Caused by a range of factors, can be infectious or non-infectious. Causes financial problems to farmers.

Scours Find out more