April 16, 2025

Schothorst Feed Research researcher publishes book on mycotoxins

Schothorst Feed Research's (SFR) senior researcher and innovation coordinator, Dr. Regiane R. Santos, has recently published a book focused on mycotoxins.

The book discusses the potential risks of these contaminants for pigs, cattle, poultry, horses, fish, insects, and pets. It also focuses on prevention and detection in animal feed and on how to minimise adverse effects caused by feed contamination.

The book includes contributions from international experts from all over the world and is divided into 19 chapters. For instance, Professor Tegzes from Western University of Health Sciences (US) wrote a chapter on the effects of mycotoxins in pets, while Professor Antonissen from Ghent University (Belgium) contributed with updates related to poultry.

Prof. Gallo from the Catholic University of the Sacred Heart (Italy) discusses the effects of mycotoxins on ruminants, and Dr. Alassane-Kpembi from Montreal University (Canada) discusses the interaction of mycotoxins with other mycotoxins, contaminants, and veterinary drugs.

Climate change plays a significant role in the increase of crop contamination with mycotoxins. As global temperatures rise and weather patterns become more erratic, the conditions that promote fungal growth are more present. This change can lead to shifts in the fungal species present in crop fields, creating an environment where more mycotoxin-producing fungi thrive. To discuss this, a chapter was written by Prof. Medina from Cranfield University (UK).

The main goal of Dr. Santos is to promote the interaction among farmers, nutritionists, veterinarians, policymakers, university researchers, and the feed industry.

"A bridge is needed between fundamental and applied research," she said.

The book is available through publisher Brill and Amazon.

- SFR