Occupational exposure to fungi and mycotoxins in swine feed production: Data Review

Swine feed production workers are highly exposed to microorganisms and their by-products. These contaminants are easily accumulated and aerosolized in areas where feed is received, processed and packed for sale. An extensive search was made for scientific papers, in different online databases reporting fungi and mycotoxin contamination present on feed production facilities and the potential impact for workers. The most common fungi present on feed were Aspergillus spp., Fusarium spp. and Penicillium spp.. Regarding mycotoxins found on feed, Zearalenone and Aflotoxins were the most prevalent. Aflatoxin B1 was the most reported mycotoxin in feed production occupational environment. Prevention of fungi dissemination and, consequently, mycotoxins production in this setting should be avoid, since can result in mycotoxins exposure for workers and, even in some cases, for consumers.