Investigation on the biodegradability of mycotoxins nivalenol (NIV) and deoxynivalenol (DON) in a rusitec fermentor and their monitoring by HPLC/MS.

Biodegradation of two B-trichothecenes nivalenol (NIV) and deoxynivalenol (DON) have been studied in a RUSITEC (rumen simulation technique) system. The fermentation studies were carried out in vessels containing the rumen fluid. To reach steady state an adaptation period of one week was carried out. The mycotoxin standards were then added into the fermentor in a concentration of 1ppm NIV and 2ppm DON. The kinetics of NIV and DON biodegradability during the fermentation process were monitored by using a rapid HPLC method combined with a mass spectrometer and an atmospheric pressure chemical ionisation (APCI(-)) interface. Also the effect of mycotoxin addition on different parameters such as ammonia production, pH, gas production and volatile fatty acids have been studied.