A practical guide to the prevention of Fusarium mycotoxins in grain and animal feedstuffs.

The guidelines in this report focus on prevention of mycotoxin contamination associated with plant and animal production in eastern Canada. The topics covered include a brief description of the Fusarium mycotoxins of particular concern in eastern Canada, the life cycle of Fusarium and recommendations for reducing fungal infection and mycotoxin production in grain crops and animal feed. The presence of complex mixtures of toxins, as well as research on detoxification and mycotoxin residues in animal food products are discussed. For those involved in advising producers and millers on occupational hazards associated with mycotoxins, guidelines on the safe handling of contaminated grain are also included. The review provides background information for scientists and technical personnel advising grain and animal producers on how to reduce mycotoxin problems associated with F. graminearum contamination of grain, especially wheat and corn. It may be necessary to revise the recommendations to suit different agricultural regions or different plant and animal production systems.