Selko highlights mycotoxin management in inaugural Mycotoxin Academy in India

INDIA – Selko, a feed additives brand under Nutreco, recently held its inaugural Mycotoxin Academy in Bengaluru, India, from July 24 to 25, 2024. 

The event brought together leading experts in plant science, animal health, and mycotoxin management to explore the rising challenges posed by mycotoxins in animal feed and food production.

The academy featured ten presenters, including internationally recognised specialists in plant pathology, feed processing, and animal nutrition. 

Over a day and a half, participants delved into the complexities of mycotoxin risk factors, particularly concerning climate change, which is exacerbating mycotoxin contamination in crops, storage, and animal feed. 

Dr Swamy Haladi, Global Technical Commercial Manager for Selko’s Mycotoxin Risk Management Programme, emphasised the importance of understanding how conditions in the field, such as crop practices and climate variations, contribute to the prevalence of mycotoxins.

The academy’s key focus was the detection and management of masked and emerging mycotoxins. 

Enhanced detection techniques are shedding new light on the impact of these mycotoxins on animals and humans. Regulatory bodies, especially in Western Europe, are beginning to emphasise the need to detect masked mycotoxins like DON.

The event also addressed the varied effects of mycotoxins on different animal species. Experts discussed the risks posed by contaminated feed and the importance of preventing mycotoxins from entering animals’ systems, where they can cause organ damage and affect overall health. 

Dr Antonio Gallo from Italy’s Università Cattolica del Sacro Cuore and Dr Kai Kuehlman from Trouw Nutrition’s APAC region provided valuable insights into the species-specific risks and the human health implications of mycotoxin exposure.

One of the critical points highlighted was the impact of warmer climates on mycotoxin prevalence. Warmer temperatures are known to support the growth of thermophilic fungi, which can weaken plant resistance and increase the risk of mycotoxin contamination.

The discussion underscored the importance of using organic acids and mycotoxin mitigation agents in feed to control mould growth and manage the threat of mycotoxins effectively.

Reflecting on the success of the academy, Dr Haladi noted the high level of interest in mycotoxin management in Asia and Africa. 

He emphasised that the knowledge shared at the event would contribute to ongoing efforts in these regions to improve feed safety and animal health. 

As Selko continues to invest in research and development, future solutions may include advanced biotransformation pathways and new technologies to mitigate the effects of mycotoxins on affected organs.

A participant from South India praised the academy, describing it as a highly technical seminar that provided valuable insights into mycotoxin management, expressing gratitude for the opportunity to attend. 

This inaugural event marks the beginning of Selko’s broader initiative to address mycotoxin challenges globally, with plans to further engage with stakeholders at next year’s World Mycotoxin Forum, where Selko will be a gold sponsor.

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