Mold and Mycotoxin Levels in Feeds from Farms Experiencing Spiking Mortality

Abstract This study collected and retained fifty-eight matching feed samples from spiking mortality and non-spiking flocks for mod and mycotoxins evaluation. Either ELISA or HPLC technology identified and quantified aflatoxin, T-2, fumonisin, and zearalenone in the samples. Twenty samples were further examined using HPLC for a wide range of fusariotoxins and derivatives. Researchers found Aspergillus flavus and Fusarium moniliforme in low incidence. The most prevalent mold identified was Penicillium chrysogenum; however, no differences were noted between spiking mortality or non-spiking farms. No aflatoxins were found in any of the feed samples tested. Fumonisins and deoxynivalenol occurred at low levels but could not be related to spiking mortality. Two unknown HPLC peaks were identified correlating to farms exhibiting spiking mortality.