In vitro adsorption of Fumonisin B1 by multiple algae-modified clay formulations

Mycotoxins are toxic secondary metabolites produced by fungi, and frequently encountered in cereals that compose a major part of livestock diets. Fumonisin B1 (FB1) is one of the most prevalent toxins in feed, posing a risk to animal health and productivity. Considering mycotoxin mitigation strategies, adsorbents are an advantageous alternative for reducing mycotoxin uptake by animals. In this context, the main objective of this study was to develop an in vitro protocol for FB1 adsorption and assess the binding efficacy of five formulated products composed of inorganic clay and algae extracts. For this purpose, algae-based formulations were provided by Olmix (Bréhan, France), and multiple parameters were evaluated for in vitro testing, such as pH and mycotoxin concentration. After the selection of adequate conditions, the adsorption capacities of five algae-based products were compared. Results indicate that the adsorption capacity of the algae-based products is mainly linked to the presence of algae, especially green algae; which present a high polysaccharide content in their cell walls as binding sites for mycotoxins. The use of algae for mycotoxin adsorption remains underexplored, but the findings of the present work indicate that algae-based products are effective for FB1 control in animal feed.