A comprehensive study of the effects of aflatoxincontamination on poultry and methods of dealing with it

Aflatoxins, a class of potent mycotoxins produced by Aspergillus fungi on agricultural crops likecorn and peanuts, pose a significant challenge for the poultry industry. When poultry ingestcontaminated feed, it leads to immunosuppression, compromised organ function especially of the liverand kidneys, reduced growth and feed efficiency, diminished egg production and quality, and increasedmortality rates. Notably, long-term low-level exposure to aflatoxins can cause chronic toxicity andbioaccumulation in eggs and meat, potentially posing risks to human consumers. Effectively managingthis widespread issue requires a multifaceted approach involving both pre- and post-harvest strategies.Key pre-harvest measures include implementing robust Good Agricultural Practices to minimize fungalgrowth, as well as sorting and discarding visibly contaminated crops. Additionally, stringent qualitycontrol throughout feed production and storage is crucial, particularly for imported ingredients fromregions with high aflatoxin-producing fungus prevalence. Within poultry themselves, the detrimentaleffects of aflatoxin exposure can be mitigated by incorporating mycotoxin binders into feedformulations. These binders work by effectively sequestering aflatoxins in the digestive tract, reducingabsorption into the bloodstream. Promising research is also ongoing into developing vaccines to bolsterpoultry's innate defenses against the harmful impacts of aflatoxins. In conclusion, successfully managingaflatoxin contamination in poultry necessitates a comprehensive and integrated approach involvingpreventative measures at the agricultural level as well as effective control strategies at the farm level.Through coordinated implementation of such strategies, poultry flocks' health and well-being can besafeguarded while also protecting public health from potential threats associated with aflatoxin residuesin poultry products.

Keywords:

Poultry , aflatoxins , mycotoxins , detoxification , Immunity