Abstract
Abnormal behavior, such as tail biting, is a fundamental problem in pig husbandry worldwide, and the application of enrichment materials, particularly organic materials, is one of the most promising preventive and curative measures. However, the potential health risks posed by these materials, such as being an additional source of mycotoxins, have not been sufficiently studied to date. Therefore, 21 different organic enrichment materials were tested for mycotoxin contamination with a liquid chromatography tandem mass spectrometry multi-mycotoxin method. Concerning the legally regulated mycotoxins in the EU, aflatoxin B1 and ochratoxin A were not detected in any of the tested materials. Fumonisin B2 was detected in straw meal made of wheat, rye, and triticale, but the level (0.014 mg/kg) was very low. The level of deoxynivalenol in maize pellets (5.01 mg/kg) and maize silage (2.12 mg/kg) exceeded the guidance value for pig feed. Zearalenone was present at high levels in maize pellets (1.21 mg/kg), hay (0.30 mg/kg), and maize silage (0.25 mg/kg). Maize products showed high levels of mycotoxins presenting a health risk for pigs and cannot be recommended as enrichment material.
Highlights
IntroductionA major risk factor for the outbreak of tail biting is a lack or insufficiency of manipulable enrichment material [2]
In intensive pig production, tail biting is a frequent problem worldwide subsequently impairing the animal’s welfare, health, and resilience while leading to economic losses for the farmer [1].A major risk factor for the outbreak of tail biting is a lack or insufficiency of manipulable enrichment material [2]
The risk of mycotoxins posed by organic materials used as enrichment material in pig farming is discussed controversially, and this study aimed to evaluate the level of mycotoxin contamination of different organic enrichment materials to assess the potential health risks for pigs
Summary
A major risk factor for the outbreak of tail biting is a lack or insufficiency of manipulable enrichment material [2]. Recommendation 2016/336/EU [5] specifies that the material should be edible, chewable, investigable, and manipulable; only organic materials can be recommended as optimal enrichment for pigs. A review comparing different enrichment materials in their effectiveness and acceptance by pigs summarized the advantages of organic materials [6]. A further requirement that has to be fulfilled by the material is the safety concerning potential animal health effects [4,5]. Some materials such as straw can be contaminated with mycotoxins [7]
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