Natural clays reduce mycotoxins (AFB1 and OTA) carry-over in broilers

What is it about?

Mycotoxins are harmful substances produced by fungi in poorly stored feed. Two of the most dangerous, aflatoxin B₁ (AFB₁) and ochratoxin A (OTA), can reduce poultry growth, harm health, and leave residues in meat, posing risks to consumers. Commercial binders such as bentonite and yeast products can reduce these effects, but they are expensive and often imported, limiting their use in developing countries._x000D_ _x000D_ This study investigated two natural clays available in Cameroon: a halloysite–kaolinite clay from Balengou (Clay B) and a smectite clay from Garoua (Clay G). Broiler chickens were fed diets contaminated with AFB₁ and OTA, with or without these clays at 1–3 g/kg, and compared with commercial additives._x000D_ _x000D_ Results showed that both natural clays improved growth performance and significantly reduced AFB₁ and OTA residues in liver, gizzard, and muscle. Clay B at 2 g/kg and Clay G at 1–2 g/kg were the most effective. Although commercial products remained superior, local clays offered comparable benefits._x000D_ Using these natural clays could provide farmers with a low-cost, sustainable option to protect poultry health and improve food safety in developing countries.

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Photo by Immo Wegmann on Unsplash

Photo by Immo Wegmann on Unsplash

Why is it important?

This work is important because it provides a locally accessible and cost-effective strategy to mitigate mycotoxin exposure in poultry production systems, improve food safety, protect animal and human health, and promote sustainable livestock production in tropical developing countries

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