New DSM-Firmenich survey shows mycotoxin threat at critical levels worldwide

GLOBAL – DSM-Firmenich has released its latest World Mycotoxin Survey, covering January to June 2025, revealing a disturbing global increase in the presence and intensity of mycotoxin contamination in animal feed and raw commodities. 

With 10,868 samples analysed from 81 countries, the biannual report, considered the most comprehensive of its kind, confirms that mycotoxins remain a persistent and growing threat to food security, animal health, and international trade.

The report found that co-contamination, the presence of more than one mycotoxin in a single sample, is increasingly the norm rather than the exception. 

In regions like South Asia and East Asia, the total risk level exceeded 90%, with critical toxins such as fumonisins (FUM), deoxynivalenol (DON), and zearalenone (ZEN) prevalent at exceptionally high rates. 

“10 out of 10 samples contaminated with Fusarium toxins contained, and 99% of all samples contained 10 or more mycotoxins and metabolites,” the report states, referencing findings from Spectrum 380®, DSM-Firmenich’s ultra-sensitive LC-MS-based analytical technique.

Regional disparities but universal risk

Across all continents, the threat profile varies, but danger is evident everywhere. Sub-Saharan Africa reported 89% of samples contaminated with DON and 62% with FUM, while North America showed contamination rates of 83% for ZEN and 78% for DON. 

East Asia reported the most alarming figures, with 100% of all samples tested for FUM being positive, although aflatoxins were only detected in 28% of the samples tested. 

In South Asia, the overall risk is estimated at 94%. Specifically, 85% of samples were contaminated with aflatoxins, while only 5% were contaminated with DON.

Even Europe, traditionally considered more regulated, did not escape. In Southern Europe, 74% of samples tested positive for ZEN, 64% for DON, and 54% for aflatoxins, with an overall risk level of 76%. 

Spectrum 380® and Top®50 offer deeper insights

To uncover hidden risks, DSM-Firmenich deployed its Spectrum 380® and Top®50 platforms. These advanced technologies detect hundreds of known, modified, and emerging mycotoxins in feed. 

According to the report, the average sample tested via Spectrum 380® contained 43 different toxins or metabolites, with genistin, daidzin, and zearalenone ranking among the most frequently found.

“Genistin was detected at levels as high as 246,500 ppb, while daidzin reached 174,600 ppb,” the report highlights, underlining the severity of exposures not yet fully regulated or understood.

Implications for feed and food industries

The report underscores the importance of constant vigilance, regional risk assessments, and advanced diagnostics. 

With global trade in feed ingredients increasing and climate conditions altering fungal behaviour, DSM-Firmenich’s data acts as a vital early warning system.

As the company notes, “We bring progress to life” by arming stakeholders with the knowledge to manage one of the most insidious threats in modern agriculture. 

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