Negative effects of trichothecene mycotoxins in egg laying hens

10/03/2025

Reduction in egg production

Trichothecene mycotoxins reduce the appetite of chickens and reduce feed consumption. As a result, the daily energy intake of chickens decreases, which directly leads to a decrease in egg production. Mycotoxins, especially T-2 toxin and DON, can reduce the number of eggs and in some cases cause complete failure. These toxins have also been shown to negatively affect egg weight and quality.

Immune system suppression

Trichothecene mycotoxins suppress the immune system of poultry and weaken body resistance. The immune cells of chickens exposed to mycotoxins are damaged and become more vulnerable to infections. In particular, the activity of immune cells such as lymphocytes decreases. As a result, chickens become more susceptible to respiratory tract infections, digestive tract infections and other common diseases. The increased risk of disease can also lead to the spread of health problems throughout the flock and increased mortality rates.

Damage to the liver and kidneys

Trichothecenes accumulate in the liver and kidneys and disrupt the functions of these organs. Since the liver functions as the body's detoxification center, the accumulation of toxins here negatively affects the functioning of the organ. Liver damage can disrupt the general health of chickens, causing growth retardation and loss of appetite. Damage to the kidneys can disrupt fluid and electrolyte balance in chickens, affecting water consumption and feed utilization.

Effects on reproduction and egg health

Trichothecene mycotoxins can cause irregularities in the egg-laying cycle by changing hormone levels. In cases of long-term exposure, the reproductive system can lose its functionality. Problems such as thinning of the shell in eggs, deterioration in shell quality and color changes in the yolk can occur.

Effects on the respiratory system

Respiratory system problems can also be observed in chickens exposed to high amounts of trichothecene mycotoxins through feed or air. Mycotoxins cause irritation to the respiratory tract, paving the way for coughing, shortness of breath and lung infections. Such respiratory problems can lead to loss of productivity, especially in egg laying hens.

The biochemical and physiological effects of trichothecenes can negatively affect the general health and production performance of hens, causing serious economic losses.

Management strategies: Prevention and control methods

Various management strategies have been developed to reduce the negative effects of trichothecene mycotoxins in egg laying hens. These strategies are designed to keep mycotoxins away from feed sources, improve feed quality and limit the effects of mycotoxins.

Use of mycotoxin binders: Mycotoxin binders bind mycotoxins in feeds and prevent their absorption in the digestive system. These binders are produced from natural substances such as zeolite, bentonite and activated carbon and are mixed into feeds to reduce the bioavailability of toxins. The use of mycotoxin binders protects chickens from the harmful effects of mycotoxins, thus protecting egg productivity.

Improving feed storage conditions: Keeping feed storage areas dry and cool is important to prevent mold growth and mycotoxin production. Feed stored in high humidity or hot environments creates a suitable environment for fungal growth. The risk of mycotoxin contamination can be minimized by regularly checking feed stores and ensuring humidity control.

Regular analysis of feed raw materials: Feed manufacturers ensure the safety of feed by regularly performing mycotoxin analysis of feed raw materials. These analyses are important to determine whether mycotoxin levels are above the limit values. When appropriate analyses of feeds are not performed, toxin contents cannot be detected, which can lead to serious problems during the production process.

Supplements that support the immune system: Vitamin and mineral supplements can be used to support the immune system against mycotoxin exposure. Antioxidants such as vitamin C, vitamin E, selenium and zinc help reduce the harmful effects of mycotoxins by supporting immune cells. Keeping the immune system strong minimizes the harmful effects of mycotoxins.

Use of alternative feed sources: Alternative feed ingredients can be used instead of high-risk feed sources such as grain or corn to reduce the risk of mycotoxins. For example, protein sources and vegetable oils with low mycotoxin risk can be added to the feed formulation to reduce mycotoxin exposure. Such alternative feed sources are a good option for businesses that want to reduce mycotoxin risk.

These management strategies provide effective solutions to control the negative effects that mycotoxin exposure may cause in egg laying hens. The implementation of these strategies is of great importance to minimize the harmful effects of mycotoxins, ensure animal welfare and maintain productivity.

Conclusion

Trichothecene mycotoxins stand out as a serious threat that can cause significant health problems and productivity losses in egg laying hens. These toxins cause devastating effects on the digestive, immune and reproductive systems of hens, while leading to negative results such as decreased egg productivity, deterioration in egg quality and susceptibility to diseases in hens. Developing an effective management strategy against mycotoxins is critical both in terms of protecting chicken health and minimizing economic losses of enterprises.

At this point, measures such as the use of mycotoxin binders, storing feeds in correct conditions, performing regular feed analyses and applying immune-supporting supplements provide effective solutions to keep the damages of trichothecenes under control. Although it is not possible to completely eliminate all risks, these management strategies make significant contributions to the alleviation of mycotoxin-related problems in egg laying hens.

As a result, when egg laying hens adopt a conscious and proactive approach to mycotoxin management, they can achieve higher efficiency, better product quality and a healthier animal population in their production processes. Thanks to this conscious management, a more sustainable poultry sector becomes possible both economically and in terms of animal welfare.