Recent progress on analytical techniques for mycotoxins in feedstuffs

Abstract

Analysis of mycotoxins in feedstuffs is a difficult task because only trace amounts of the toxins are present in the sample. However, rapid progress in the area of mycotoxin analysis has been made during the last few years. Simplified sample cleanup protocols and new chromatographic methods, especially HPLC, have been developed. New, more sensitive and versatile instruments such as high-resolution mass spectrometry (MS) and gas chromatography/tandem MS/MS are coming to the market. After 15 yr of laboratory research, immunoassay techniques have gained more acceptance as analytical tools for mycotoxins. Several immunoassay kits for mycotoxins are currently available. The development of these new techniques and their application for monitoring various mycotoxins in foods and feeds are described in this review.