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Report from the 1st MycoKey International Conference Global Mycotoxin Reduction in the Food and Feed Chain

Summary

This conference focused on improving food safety by better detecting and controlling toxic compounds called mycotoxins that can contaminate food and feed. The research presented aims to develop better tools and methods to protect consumers from these harmful contaminants. Key impacts on everyday life: – Safer food supply through improved detection of harmful toxins – Better methods to prevent contamination during food production and storage – Development of user-friendly tools to help food producers manage contamination risks – International cooperation to address global food safety challenges – Protection of human and animal health from toxic compounds in food

Background

Mycotoxins play a significant role in food and feed safety. Legislative limits for mycotoxins worldwide and emerging mycotoxins have led to increased official controls from national food safety plans and food trade. The challenges in mycotoxin and toxigenic mould research remain enormous due to frequency, complexity and variability in occurrence.

Objective

MycoKey aims to deliver in 2019 the first integrated ICT tool to address mycotoxin contamination along the food and feed chain. The project will integrate innovative key actions into a user-friendly application providing real-time information and suggestions for mycotoxin management to stakeholders. The participation of Chinese partners will strengthen global knowledge on mycotoxins and cooperation with China.

Results

Key findings presented included: development of novel detection methods for multiple mycotoxins, insights into fungal genomics and population dynamics, evaluation of biological control agents, and advances in rapid screening technologies. Specific achievements included development of immunoassays, LC-MS methods, and biocontrol approaches for reducing mycotoxin contamination.

Conclusion

The conference successfully brought together researchers to share advances in mycotoxin detection, control and management across the food chain. Progress was reported in developing integrated tools and approaches for mycotoxin reduction, though challenges remain in implementation. The collaboration between EU and Chinese partners shows promise for strengthening global efforts in mycotoxin management.
  • Published in:Toxins,
  • Study Type:Conference Proceedings,
  • Source: 10.3390/toxins9090276
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