Indicators for early identification of re-emerging mycotoxins

The aim of this study was to select the most important indicators for early identification of re-emerging mycotoxins in wheat, maize, peanuts and tree nuts. The study was based on a holistic approach and, consequently, potential indicators were evaluated not only from the food production chain but also from other influential sectors. The study comprised a literature review followed by an expert judgement study. The expert study consisted of a series of individual interviews and a workshop. It used a panel of 25 experts from the Netherlands. The selected indicators for the model commodity wheat included relative humidity, temperature, transport and storage conditions, crop rotation, crop variety, tillage practice, and drying of the kernel. For maize, peanuts and tree nuts, the first three indicators were found to be most important. The results of this study will be used in the development of models for early identification of re-emerging mycotoxins in wheat, maize, peanuts and tree nuts. Such models may be useful for risk managers from feed and food industry and/or governmental authorities to facilitate pro-active feed and/or food safety management.