Effects of mycotoxins on health and performance in poultry

Abstract

Mycotoxins are secondary metabolites produced by molds that can contaminate a wide variety of crops, such as cereals. In agriculture, their control is considered as a challenge because of their adverse effects on humans and animals. Although more than 400 mycotoxins have been identified only a few of them are of importance in poultry production. The European Union applies or recommends maximum levels for certain mycotoxins in cereals and feed for poultry, in order to protect both animal and human consumers. The objective of this review is to present the effects of acute and repeated exposure to mycotoxins on health and performances in the main poultry species. This analysis was carried out when possible, by comparing the effects observed in recent studies to regulated or recommended European levels. Particular attention was paid to factors related to species and production stage, in the sensitivity to various toxins. The last part of this review is devoted to the analysis of data available in cases of multi-contamination in terms of additive, synergistic or antagonistic effects.