When pigs eat feed containing a harmful mycotoxin, the toxin can affect the pig's central nervous system, liver, kidney, immune system, or reproductive process. Each toxin is produced by a different mold. The conditions that promote growth of molds vary, although high moisture and warm temperatures are responsible for most mold growth on feedstuffs. We know more about aflatoxin and its effect on pig performance than other mycotoxins. The effect of feeding aflatoxin-contaminated grain on pig performance depends on the age and health of the pig, the concentration or level of toxin in the feed, and for how long the pig eats the contaminated feed.
Young pigs are the most sensitive to aflatoxin effects.
Small amounts can reduce pig performance and overall health. Long term consumption of contaminated feed may cause cancer, liver damage, jaundice, and internal bleeding. Profits are reduced because of loss in feed efficiency, slower growth, and increased medical costs. The following guidelines for feeding levels of aflatoxin are considered safe under normal conditions. Animals under stress or disease situations may react to lower levels.