SFR researcher publishes book on mycotoxins
Regiane R. Santos, a senior researcher at Schothorst Feed Research, recently edited a book entitled ‘Mycotoxins: From Field to Feed’. With 15 years of experience in this field, Dr. Santos summarizes knowledge in this book based on realistic risks and inquiries from the field.
Mycotoxins are toxins produced by fungi, and approximately 80% of animal feeds contain two or more mycotoxins. The book discusses the potential risks of these contaminants for pigs, cattle, poultry, horses, fish, insects, and pets. It also focuses on prevention and detection in animal feed and on how to minimise adverse effects caused by feed contamination.
Global Experts
The book includes contributions from experts from all over the world and is divided into 19 chapters. For instance, Professor Tegzes from Western University of Health Sciences (USA) wrote a chapter on the effects of mycotoxins in pets, while Professor Antonissen from Ghent University (Belgium) contributed updates related to poultry. Professor. Gallo from the Catholic University of the Sacred Heart (Italy) discusses the effects of mycotoxins on ruminants, and Dr. Alassane-Kpembi from Montreal University (Canada) explores the interaction of mycotoxins with other mycotoxins, contaminants, and veterinary drugs.
Impact of Climate Change
Climate change plays a significant role in the increase of crop contamination with mycotoxins. As temperatures rise and weather patterns become more erratic, the conditions that promote fungal growth become more prevalent. This change can lead to shifts in the fungal species present in crop fields, creating an environment where more mycotoxin-producing fungi thrive. To discuss this, a chapter was written by Prof. Medina from Cranfield University (UK).
Collaboration as Key
The main goal of Dr. Santos is to promote interaction among farmers, nutritionists, veterinarians, policymakers, university researchers, and the feed industry. “A bridge is needed between fundamental and applied research,” she says.
The book is available through publisher Brill at www.brill.com/ffs and Amazon. On the 31st of March there is a webinar with official presentation of the book with Regiane Santos. Clients of SFR can order the book at SFR.
SFR is specialized in mycotoxin research. As a result of years of research, SFR has recently published standards for mycotoxin levels in animal feed ingredients.
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About the Author
Dr. Regiane R. Santos is a senior researcher and innovation coordinator at Schothorst Feed Research. A veterinarian with PhDs from Brazil and Utrecht university, she specialized in the impact of mycotoxins on the digestive and reproductive systems of farm animals during her doctoral work at Utrecht University (2008–2015). Since 2015, she has led mycotoxin research at SFR and has authored over 150 peer-reviewed studies, serving as a bridge between research and practical application. She is currently editing a book on animal feed safety as her next exciting project.