All-Tech has released its highly anticipated 2023 U.S. Harvest Analysis Report, providing critical insights into mycotoxin risks in livestock feed. Dr. Max Hawkins, part of the Alltech Mycotoxin Management Team, underscores the importance of monitoring weather patterns in identifying these risks.
“In areas like the western Corn Belt and the Northern prairies, dry weather tends to reduce mycotoxin occurrences, particularly Fusarium toxins. However, Aspergillus toxins, which produce aflatoxin, remained a concern and were found further north than usual, even extending into Northern Iowa, the Dakotas, and southern Canadian Prairies,” says Dr. Hawkins.
Mycotoxins pose significant threats to animal performance and health, with Dr. Hawkins emphasizing their economic impact on the livestock industry.
“Factors such as feed intakes, digestive processes, gut wall integrity, and liver function can all be affected by mycotoxins. Additionally, mycotoxin pressure can lower the immune response in animals, impacting their ability to develop fully expected health titers from treatments,” explains Dr. Hawkins.
To mitigate these risks, Dr. Hawkins recommends regular testing of feeds and ingredients, stressing the importance of ongoing monitoring as mycotoxin levels can rise during storage.
