Mycotoxin Outlook for 2026 Harvest – Part 1

The 2026 corn growing season in North America yet again provided extreme weather events including record high temperatures and excessive rainfall in some places while others are experiencing severe drought conditions. Many factors influence the risk for mycotoxin contamination in crops, but climatic conditions play a critical role. While maximizing yield is often the goal, considerations for crop condition are also important heading into harvest. This article will provide an overview of major mycotoxigenic molds and key factors which influence the production of mycotoxins in corn. This will set the basis for next month’s article which will dig deeper into what contamination profiles might look like with the 2026 corn crop.

Mycotoxin biomarkers - is the hype justified?

Despite the challenges which exist with mycotoxin analysis of feedstuffs, feed analysis continues to be the widely accepted way to monitor mycotoxin risk. An alternative approach which has garnered attention in recent years is the use of mycotoxin biomarkers – assessing mycotoxins via analysis of blood or other biological matrices (urine, bile, etc.) collected directly from animals. Although the use of biomarkers sounds like an exciting way to evaluate mycotoxin risk, there are also various limitations to consider. This article will provide insights into the use of mycotoxin biomarkers and highlight some of the current key challenges with this approach.

Fumonisins in swine: the hidden cost of subclinical exposure

While high fumonisin levels are associated with clinical conditions such as porcine pulmonary edema, most commercial systems experience chronic, low to moderate exposure. Pigs often appear normal, yet underlying biological changes reduce efficiency, increase variability, and impact overall performance.