Mycotoxins are a chemically diverse group of fungal metabolites that have a wide variety
of toxic effects. An internal risk profile has to be established in order to manage the risk
of mycotoxins in a feed mill operation. Based on continuous testing of ingredients as
well as finished product, the situation should be monitored continuously. Where action
is necessary to detoxify contaminated materials, the choice depends on a consideration
of the mycotoxins and species involved, in order to secure safety and performance of
the farm animals in general and the whole food chain in particular. Blending with noncontaminated
feed ingredients, re-routing contaminated grain to less susceptible animal
species, or the addition of feed additives, based on adsorptive and, more recently, enzymatic
modes of action, are widely used strategies to reduce mycotoxin-induced performance
impairment.