Main Ways for Reducing Mycotoxicological Burden on Animal Feed

The breadth of the problem of mycotoxin damage to plant-based animal feed is becoming increasingly apparent today. UN data show that up to 30% of the world's crop is affected by toxic metabolites, while in Russia the problem affects about 80% of grain. In the Vologda Region, the problem is no less acute: analysis of cattle feed samples showed that almost all of them were affected by aflatoxins and zearalenone, 97% by ochratoxin-A, and less than a third of the samples were DON. The threat of the spread of micromycetes and their metabolites is obvious for the successful development of the agro-industrial complex, the production of high-quality dairy and meat products, and the preservation of public health. The aim of the study is to analyze Russian and foreign literature and identify the main ways to reduce the level of mycotoxicological burden on animal feed. Based on the research results of Russian and foreign authors, the review identifies the following main mechanisms for reducing the content of mycotoxins in feed: transformation (transformation) of toxins into less dangerous substances and reduction of the bioavailability of toxins using various sorbents. In addition, the following methods of combating mycotoxicological stress have been identified: physical (radiation, mechanical or thermal effects); chemical (treatment with substances that react chemically with mycotoxins); biological (treatment with live bacterial cultures, enzyme preparations); sorption (the use of a variety of binding inorganic and organic agents). The review results suggest that there are no single radical ways to reduce the level of mycotoxins in animal feed and food products. It is necessary to develop comprehensive tools that combine preventive measures for animals, as well as detoxification methods and constant feed monitoring. Only an integrated approach can minimize the risk of mycotoxicosis, while maintaining animal health and reducing the financial costs of farms.