Workshop on trichothecenes with a focus on DON: summary report

Area of Science:

• Food Science
• Mycology
• Toxicology

Background:

• Fusarium fungi commonly contaminate cereals, producing trichothecene mycotoxins.
• Adverse weather conditions can increase Fusarium infections and subsequent trichothecene levels in crops like wheat.
• High trichothecene contamination poses risks to food safety and human health.

Purpose of the Study:

• To consolidate current knowledge on trichothecenes, particularly deoxynivalenol (DON).
• To address occurrence, prevention, analytical methods, surveillance, exposure, and toxicology.
• To provide recommendations and identify knowledge gaps.

Main Methods:

• A workshop organized by the ILSI Europe Natural Toxin Task Force.
• Expert review of existing scientific literature and data.
• Discussion and synthesis of information on various aspects of trichothecenes.

Main Results:

• Comprehensive review covering occurrence (mould growth, toxin formation, storage, processing effects), prevention strategies, and analytical methodologies.
• Detailed examination of sampling, surveillance, exposure assessments, toxicology, and risk assessment.
• Identification of knowledge gaps and formulation of recommendations across key areas.

Conclusions:

• Effective prevention, standardized analytical methods, and robust exposure assessments are crucial for managing trichothecene risks.
• Further research is needed to fill identified knowledge gaps in trichothecene toxicology and risk assessment.
• Collaborative efforts are essential for ensuring food safety concerning mycotoxin contamination.