Asia’s broiler producers face growing challenges from imported grains contaminated with multiple mycotoxins. The 2026 risk analysis, conducted by Alltech, highlights serious consequences for broiler nutrition and performance.
Corn imports and broiler performance
Corn from the EU contained deoxynivalenol, aflatoxin B1, and T2-HT2 toxins. Broilers exposed to these contaminants lost 4.45g of daily gain and showed feed conversion increases of 1.82%.
US corn carried type B trichothecenes, fusaric acid, and zearalenone. Broilers lost 1.65g of daily gain and feed conversion worsened by 2.34%.
Brazilian corn showed high fumonisin levels, with average concentrations near 2000 parts per billion (ppb) and maximum levels exceeding 29,000 ppb. Risks were lower for broilers compared with pigs, but contamination still posed measurable performance challenges.
Canadian grains revealed widespread multi-toxin contamination. Deoxynivalenol, T2-HT2 toxins, and zearalenone were present, creating moderate risks for broiler growth and efficiency.
Barley and wheat effects
EU barley carried type B trichothecenes, zearalenone, and fusarenon X. Broilers lost 1.21 grams of daily gain and feed conversion worsened by 1.74%.
EU wheat showed frequent type B trichothecenes, with average concentrations near 94 ppb. Broilers lost 0.31g of daily gain and feed conversion increased by 1.72%.
Canadian wheat and barley carried deoxynivalenol at average levels of 376 ppb, with maximum concentrations reaching 8500 ppb. Risks were moderate, with measurable impacts on broiler growth.
Corn byproducts and severe losses
Corn byproducts from North America, the EU, and Asia carried extreme multi-toxin loads. Fumonisins averaged over 5000 ppb, with maximum levels exceeding 73,000 ppb.
- Broilers lost over 11g of daily gain.
- Feed conversion worsened by more than 16%.
These losses highlight the severe impact of contaminated byproducts on poultry health and productivity.
Next-generation solutions
Alltech emphasizes that poultry producers need integrated solutions to manage these risks. Options include advanced binders, broad-spectrum mitigation technologies, and nutritional strategies that reduce toxin absorption and protect gut health.
Consistent protection across species makes these tools vital for poultry production. Accurate testing, risk analysis, and targeted nutritional approaches remain essential for sustainable broiler health and performance.