Register      Login
Animal Production Science Animal Production Science Society
Food, fibre and pharmaceuticals from animals
REVIEW

A review of potential contaminants in Australian livestock feeds and proposed guidance levels for feed

D. J. MacLachlan A G , B. J. Blaney B , L. G. Cook C , E. Klim A , R. Scholl D , M. Sexton E , J. Spragg F and R. Watts D
+ Author Affiliations
- Author Affiliations

A Department of Agriculture, Fisheries and Forestry, GPO Box 858, Canberra, ACT 2601, Australia.

B PO Box 367, Maleny, Qld 4552, Australia.

C NSW Department of Primary Industries, Locked Bag 21, Orange, NSW 2800, Australia.

D Queensland Department of Agriculture, Fisheries and Forestry, GPO Box 46, Brisbane, Qld 4001, Australia.

E Department of Agriculture and Food Western Australia, PO Box 1231, Bunbury, WA 6231, Australia.

F Stock Feed Manufacturers’ Council of Australia, PO Box 383, Beaconsfield, Vic. 3807, Australia.

G Corresponding author. Email: dugald.maclachlan@daff.gov.au

Animal Production Science 53(3) 181-208 https://doi.org/10.1071/AN12048
Submitted: 10 February 2012  Accepted: 6 September 2012   Published: 8 January 2013

Abstract

Contaminants of man-made and natural origin need to be managed in livestock feeds to protect the health of livestock and that of human consumers of livestock products. This requires access to information on the transfer from feed to food to inform risk profiles and assessments, and to guide management interventions such as regulation or Hazard Analysis Critical Control Point approaches. This paper reviews contaminants of known and potential concern in the production of livestock feeds in Australia and compares existing but differing state and national regulatory standards with international standards. The contaminants considered include man-made organic chemical contaminants (e.g. legacy pesticides), elemental contaminants (e.g. arsenic, cadmium, lead), phytotoxins (e.g. gossypol) and mycotoxins (e.g. aflatoxins). Reference is made to scientific literature and evaluations by regulators to propose maximum levels that can be used for guidance by those involved in managing contamination incidents or developing feed safety programs.


References

Alcoser VHL, Velthuis AGJ, Hoogenboom LAP, van der Fels-Klerx HJ (2011) Financial impact of a dioxin incident in the Dutch dairy chain. Journal of Food Protection 74, 967–979.
Financial impact of a dioxin incident in the Dutch dairy chain.Crossref | GoogleScholarGoogle Scholar |

Allen J (2009) Lupinosis in Western Australia. Australian Veterinary History Record 55, 13–17.

Allen JG (1987) Lupinosis. Veterinary Clinical Toxicology 103, 113–130.

Allen NK, Mirocha CJ, Aakhus-Allen S, Bitgood JJ, Weaver G, Bates F (1981a) Effect of dietary zearalenone on reproduction of chickens. Poultry Science 60, 1165–1174.
Effect of dietary zearalenone on reproduction of chickens.Crossref | GoogleScholarGoogle Scholar |

Allen NK, Mirocha CJ, Weaver G, Aakhus-Allen S, Bates F (1981b) Effect of dietary zearalenone on finishing broiler chickens and young turkey poults. Poultry Science 60, 124–131.
Effect of dietary zearalenone on finishing broiler chickens and young turkey poults.Crossref | GoogleScholarGoogle Scholar |

Anderson JF, Werdin RE (1977) Ergotism manifested as agalactia and gangrene in sows. Journal of the American Veterinary Association 170, 1089–1091.

Baars AJ, van Beek H, Visser IJ, Vos G, van Delft W, Fennema G, Lieben GW, Lautenbag K, Nieuwenhuijs JH, de Lezenne Coulander PA (1992) Lead intoxication in cattle: a case report. Food Additives and Contaminants 9, 357–364.
Lead intoxication in cattle: a case report.Crossref | GoogleScholarGoogle Scholar |

Bailey CA, Fazzino JJ, Ziehr MS, Sattar M, Haq AU, Odvody G, Porter JK (1999) Evaluation of sorghum ergot toxicity in broilers. Poultry Science 78, 1391–1397.

Bakau BJK, Bryden WL (1987) Toxicity of ergots of Claviceps purpurea in chickens subject to heat stress. Proceedings of the Nutrition Society of Australia 12, 170

Bakau BJK, Peacock AJ, Love RJ, Bryden WL (1988) Toxicity of ergots of Claviceps purpurea in growing pigs subjected to different ambient temperatures. Proceedings of the Nutrition Society of Australia 13, 136

Barry TN, Blaney BJ (1987) Secondary compounds of forages. In ‘The nutrition of herbivores’. (Eds JB Hacker, JH Ternouth) pp. 91–119. (Academic Press: Sydney)

Bergsjø B, Langseth W, Nafstad I, Jansen JH, Larsen HJ (1993) The effects of naturally deoxynivalenol-contaminated oats on the clinical condition, blood parameters, performance and carcass composition of growing pigs. Veterinary Research Communications 17, 283–294.
The effects of naturally deoxynivalenol-contaminated oats on the clinical condition, blood parameters, performance and carcass composition of growing pigs.Crossref | GoogleScholarGoogle Scholar |

Biehl ML, Prelusky DB, Koritz GD, Hartin KE, Buck WB, Trenholm HL (1993) Biliary excretion and enterohepatic cycling of zearalenone in immature pigs. Toxicology and Applied Pharmacology 121, 152–159.
Biliary excretion and enterohepatic cycling of zearalenone in immature pigs.Crossref | GoogleScholarGoogle Scholar |

Blaney BJ (1985) Mycotoxins in crops grown in different climatic regions of Queensland. In ‘Trichothecenes and other mycotoxins’. (Ed. J Lacey) pp. 97–108. (John Wiley and Sons, Ltd: Chichester)

Blaney BJ (1996) Fungal toxins and animals. In ‘Fungi of Australia. Vol. 1B. Introduction – fungi in the environment’. (Eds K Mallett, C Grgurinovic) pp. 225–238. (Australian Biological Resources Study, CSIRO: Canberra)

Blaney BJ (2005) Plant and fungal toxins as contaminants of feed and meat. In ‘Improving the safety of fresh meat’. (Ed. JN Sofos) pp. 77–101. (Woodhead Publishing, Ltd: Cambridge)

Blaney BJ, Dodman RL (1988) Production of the mycotoxins zearalenone, 4-deoxynivalenol and nivalenol, by isolates of Fusarium graminearum Groups 1 and 2 from cereals in Queensland. Australian Journal of Agricultural Research 39, 21–29.
Production of the mycotoxins zearalenone, 4-deoxynivalenol and nivalenol, by isolates of Fusarium graminearum Groups 1 and 2 from cereals in Queensland.Crossref | GoogleScholarGoogle Scholar |

Blaney BJ, Dodman RL (2002) Production of zearalenone, deoxynivalenol, nivalenol, and acetylated derivatives by Australian isolates of Fusarium graminearum and F. pseudograminearum in relation to source and culturing conditions. Australian Journal of Agricultural Research 53, 1317–1326.
Production of zearalenone, deoxynivalenol, nivalenol, and acetylated derivatives by Australian isolates of Fusarium graminearum and F. pseudograminearum in relation to source and culturing conditions.Crossref | GoogleScholarGoogle Scholar |

Blaney BJ, Gartner RJW, McKenzie RA (1981) The effects of oxalate in some tropical grasses on the availability to horses of calcium, phosphorus and magnesium. Journal of Agricultural Science, Cambridge 97, 507–514.
The effects of oxalate in some tropical grasses on the availability to horses of calcium, phosphorus and magnesium.Crossref | GoogleScholarGoogle Scholar |

Blaney BJ, Gartner RJW, Head TA (1982) The effects of oxalate in tropical grasses on calcium, phosphorus and magnesium availability to cattle. Journal of Agricultural Science, Cambridge 99, 533–539.
The effects of oxalate in tropical grasses on calcium, phosphorus and magnesium availability to cattle.Crossref | GoogleScholarGoogle Scholar |

Blaney BJ, Bloomfield RC, Moore CJ (1984a) Zearalenone intoxication of pigs. Australian Veterinary Journal 61, 24–27.
Zearalenone intoxication of pigs.Crossref | GoogleScholarGoogle Scholar |

Blaney BJ, Moore CJ, Tyler AL (1984b) Mycotoxins and fungal damage in maize harvested during 1982 in Far North Queensland. Australian Journal of Agricultural Research 35, 463–471.
Mycotoxins and fungal damage in maize harvested during 1982 in Far North Queensland.Crossref | GoogleScholarGoogle Scholar |

Blaney BJ, Ramsey MD, Tyler AL (1986) Mycotoxins and toxigenic fungi in insect-damaged maize harvested during 1983 in Far North Queensland. Australian Journal of Agricultural Research 37, 235–244.
Mycotoxins and toxigenic fungi in insect-damaged maize harvested during 1983 in Far North Queensland.Crossref | GoogleScholarGoogle Scholar |

Blaney BJ, Moore CJ, Tyler AL (1987) The mycotoxins 4-deoxynivalenol, zearalenone and aflatoxin in weather-damaged wheat harvested 1983-1985 in south-east Queensland. Australian Journal of Agricultural Research 38, 993–1000.
The mycotoxins 4-deoxynivalenol, zearalenone and aflatoxin in weather-damaged wheat harvested 1983-1985 in south-east Queensland.Crossref | GoogleScholarGoogle Scholar |

Blaney BJ, Josey BJ, McKenzie RA, Ryley MJ, Downing JA (2000a) An assessment of the effect on beef cattle of grazing sorghum (Sorghum bicolor) infected with ergot (Claviceps africana). Australian Veterinary Journal 78, 124–125.
An assessment of the effect on beef cattle of grazing sorghum (Sorghum bicolor) infected with ergot (Claviceps africana).Crossref | GoogleScholarGoogle Scholar |

Blaney BJ, Kopinski JS, Magee MH, McKenzie RA, Blight GW, Maryam R, Downing JA (2000b) Blood prolactin depression in growing pigs fed sorghum ergot (Claviceps africana). Australian Journal of Agricultural Research 51, 785–791.
Blood prolactin depression in growing pigs fed sorghum ergot (Claviceps africana).Crossref | GoogleScholarGoogle Scholar |

Blaney BJ, McKenzie RA, Walters JR, Taylor LF, Bewg WS, Ryley MJ, Maryam R (2000c) Sorghum ergot (Claviceps africana) associated with agalactia and feed refusal in pigs and dairy cattle. Australian Veterinary Journal 78, 102–107.
Sorghum ergot (Claviceps africana) associated with agalactia and feed refusal in pigs and dairy cattle.Crossref | GoogleScholarGoogle Scholar |

Blaney BJ, Kopinski JS, Murray S-A, McLennan SR, Moss RJ, Downing JA, Dingle JG (2001) Research on the toxicity of sorghum ergot and its alkaloids. In ‘Proceedings of the fourth Australian sorghum conference. Kooralbyn, Queensland, 5–8 February 2001’. (Eds AK Borrell, RG Henzell) (CD-ROM) (Range Media Pty Ltd: Toowoomba, Qld)

Blaney BJ, Maryam R, Murray S-A, Ryley MJ (2003) Alkaloids of sorghum ergot pathogen (Claviceps africana): assay methods and variation between sclerotia/sphacelia. Australian Journal of Agricultural Research 54, 167–175.
Alkaloids of sorghum ergot pathogen (Claviceps africana): assay methods and variation between sclerotia/sphacelia.Crossref | GoogleScholarGoogle Scholar |

Blaney BJ, Chakraborty S, Murray S-A (2006) Alkaloid production by isolates of the sorghum ergot pathogen (Claviceps africana) from Australia and other countries. Australian Journal of Agricultural Research 57, 1023–1028.
Alkaloid production by isolates of the sorghum ergot pathogen (Claviceps africana) from Australia and other countries.Crossref | GoogleScholarGoogle Scholar |

Blaney BJ, Fletcher MT, McKenzie RA, Reichmann KG (2008a) Natural toxin exposure of ruminants in northern Australia: managing the risks to food safety, trade and production. Project Report AHW.017. Meat & Livestock Australia Limited, Sydney.

Blaney BJ, O’Keeffe K, Bricknell LK (2008b) Managing mycotoxins in maize: case studies. Australian Journal of Experimental Agriculture 48, 351–357.
Managing mycotoxins in maize: case studies.Crossref | GoogleScholarGoogle Scholar |

Blaney BJ, Molloy JB, Brock IJ (2009) Alkaloids in Australian rye ergot (Claviceps purpurea) sclerotia: implications for food and stockfeed regulations. Animal Production Science 49, 975–982.
Alkaloids in Australian rye ergot (Claviceps purpurea) sclerotia: implications for food and stockfeed regulations.Crossref | GoogleScholarGoogle Scholar |

Blaney BJ, McLennan SR, Kidd JF, Connell JA, McKenzie RA, Downing JA (2011) Effect of sorghum ergot (Claviceps africana) on the performance of steers (Bos taurus) in a feedlot. Animal Production Science 51, 156–166.
Effect of sorghum ergot (Claviceps africana) on the performance of steers (Bos taurus) in a feedlot.Crossref | GoogleScholarGoogle Scholar |

Bourke CA (2003) Evidence that enforced sunlight exposure can cause hyperthermia in cattle ingesting low levels of ergot of rye (Claviceps purpurea), when air temperatures and humidity conditions are only moderate. Australian Veterinary Journal 81, 553–558.
Evidence that enforced sunlight exposure can cause hyperthermia in cattle ingesting low levels of ergot of rye (Claviceps purpurea), when air temperatures and humidity conditions are only moderate.Crossref | GoogleScholarGoogle Scholar |

Brazil (2011) Resolução – RDC no. 7, de 18 de fevereiro de 2011 – Republicação. Available at http://www.brasilsus.com.br/legislacoes/rdc/107502-7.html [Verified 20 December 2011]

Bricknell LK, Blaney BJ, Ng JC (2008) Risk management for mycotoxin contamination of Australian maize. Australian Journal of Experimental Agriculture 48, 342–350.
Risk management for mycotoxin contamination of Australian maize.Crossref | GoogleScholarGoogle Scholar |

Bruning-Fann CS, Kaneene JB (1993) The effects of nitrate, nitrite, and N-nitroso compounds on animal health. Veterinary and Human Toxicology 35, 237–253.

Bryden WL (2009) Mycotoxins and mycotoxicoses: significance, occurrence and mitigation in the food chain. In ‘General and applied toxicology’. 3rd edn. (Eds B Ballantyne, T Marrs, T Syversen) pp. 3259–3553. (John Wiley & Sons Ltd: Chichester, UK)

Bryden WL (2012a) Food and feed, mycotoxins and the perpetual pentagram in a changing animal production environment. Animal Production Science 52, 383–397.

Bryden WL (2012b) Mycotoxin contamination of the feed supply chain: implications for animal productivity and feed security. Animal Feed Science and Technology 173, 134–158.
Mycotoxin contamination of the feed supply chain: implications for animal productivity and feed security.Crossref | GoogleScholarGoogle Scholar |

Bryden WL, Lloyd AB, Cumming RB (1980) Aflatoxin contamination of Australian animal feeds and suspected cases of mycotoxicosis. Australian Veterinary Journal 56, 176–180.
Aflatoxin contamination of Australian animal feeds and suspected cases of mycotoxicosis.Crossref | GoogleScholarGoogle Scholar |

Bryden WL, Trengove CL, Davis EO, Giesecke PR, Curran GC (1994) Corynetoxicosis of livestock: a nematode-bacterium disease complex associated with different grasses. In ‘Plant-associated toxins: agricultural, phytochemical and ecological aspects’. (Eds SM Colegate, PR Dorling) pp. 410–415. (CAB International: Wallingford, UK)

Buchta M, Cvak L (1999) Ergot alkaloids and other metabolites of the genus Claviceps. Ergot: the genus Claviceps 6, 173–200.

Burgess L, Dodman R, Pont W, Mayers P (1981) Fusarium diseases of wheat, maize and grain sorghum in eastern Australia. In ‘Fusarium: diseases, biology and taxonomy’. (Eds P Nelson, T Toussoun, R Cook) pp. 64–76. (Pennsylvania State University Press: University Park, PA)

Burren BG, Reichmann KG, McKenzie RA (2010) Reduced risk of acute poisoning in Australian cattle from used motor oils after introduction of lead-free petrol. Australian Veterinary Journal 88, 240–241.
Reduced risk of acute poisoning in Australian cattle from used motor oils after introduction of lead-free petrol.Crossref | GoogleScholarGoogle Scholar |

Burritt EA, Provenza FD (2000) Role of toxins in intake of varied diets by sheep. Journal of Chemical Ecology 26, 1991–2005.
Role of toxins in intake of varied diets by sheep.Crossref | GoogleScholarGoogle Scholar |

Buzby JC, Chandran R (2003) The Belgian dioxin crisis and its effects on agricultural production and exports. In ‘International trade and food safety: economic theory and case studies’. (Ed. Jean C. Buzby) November 2003, Agricultural Economic Report No. 828, United States Department of Agriculture. Available at http://www.ers.usda.gov/publications/aer828/aer828.pdf [Verified 22 November 2012]

Byrne D, Gill P (2011) Lead poisoning in livestock. PrimeFact 413, 2nd edn. NSW Department of Primary Industries. Available at http://www.dpi.nsw.gov.au/__data/assets/pdf_file/0014/102416/Lead-poisoning-in-livestock.pdf [Verified 22 November 2012]

CAST (2003) ‘Mycotoxins: risks in plant, animal, and human systems.’ (Council for Agricultural Science and Technology: Ames. IA)

Cheeke PR (1998) ‘Natural toxicants in feeds, forages and poisonous plants’. (Interstate Publishers, Inc.: Danville, IL)

Chi MS, Mirocha CJ, Kurtz HJ, Weaver GA, Bates F, Robison T, Shimoda W (1980a) Effect of dietary zearalenone on growing broiler chicks. Poultry Science 59, 531–536.
Effect of dietary zearalenone on growing broiler chicks.Crossref | GoogleScholarGoogle Scholar |

Chi MS, Mirocha GJ, Weaver GA, Kurtz HJ (1980b) Effect of zearalenone on female white leghorn chickens. Applied and Environmental Microbiology 39, 1026–1030.

Chile (2011) Reglamento Sanitario de los Alimentos, art. 169, decreto 977/96, del Ministerio de Salud. Available at http://www.sernac.cl/sernac2011/descargas/leyes/decreto/ds_977-96_reglamento_alimentos.pdf [Verified 20 December 2011]

China (2005a) Maximum Residue Limits for Pesticides in Food. Standard GB2763–2005.

China (2005b) Maximum Levels of Contaminants in Food. Standard GB2762–2005.

China (2011) Maximum Levels of Mycotoxins in Food. Standard GB2761–2011.

Codex (2010) Codex general standard for contaminants and toxins in food and feed. CODEX STAN 193–1995, adopted 1995; revised 1997, 2006, 2008, 2009; amended 2009, 2010. Available at http://www.codexalimentarius.org/standards/list-of-standards/en/ [Verified 20 December 2011]

Codex (2011) Pesticide residues in food and feed, Codex Pesticides Residues in Food Online Database. Available at http://www.codexalimentarius.net/pestres/data/index.html [Verified 20 December 2011]

Covaci A, Voorspoels S, Schepens P, Jorens P, Blust R, Neels N (2008) The Belgian PCB/dioxin crisis – 8 years later: an overview. Environmental Toxicology and Pharmacology 25, 164–170.
The Belgian PCB/dioxin crisis – 8 years later: an overview.Crossref | GoogleScholarGoogle Scholar |

D’Mello JPF (2004) Contaminants and toxins in animal feed. In ‘Assessing quality and safety of animal feeds, FAO Animal Production and Health 160’. pp. 107–128. (Food and Agriculture Organisation: Rome)

DAFF (2004), Dioxins in Agricultural Commodities in Australia, National Dioxins Program Technical Report No. 8, Australian Government Department of the Environment and Heritage, Canberra. Available at http://www.environment.gov.au/settlements/publications/chemicals/dioxins/report-8/pubs/report-8.pdf [Verified 19 December 2011]

Dairy Australia (2011) A review of facial eczema (Pithomycotoxicosis). Report of the Dairy Australia Facial Eczema Working Group, November 2011. Available at http://www.dairyaustralia.com.au/~/media/Documents/Animals-feed-and-environment/Feeding%20cows/Facial%20eczema/DA%20Facial%20Eczema%20review%20booklet.ashx [Verified 19 December 2011]

di Menna ME, Lauren DR, Holland PT (1985) Presence of zearalenone in New Zealand pasture leaves. New Zealand Veterinary Journal 33, 193
Presence of zearalenone in New Zealand pasture leaves.Crossref | GoogleScholarGoogle Scholar |

Dignean MA, Schiefer HB, Blair R (1986) Effects of feeding ergot-contaminated grain to pregnant and nursing sows. Journal of Veterinary Medicine A 33, 757–766.
Effects of feeding ergot-contaminated grain to pregnant and nursing sows.Crossref | GoogleScholarGoogle Scholar |

Dingle JG, Blaney BJ, Molloy JB, Fletcher TI, Murray S-A, Serrao E (2003) Use of ergot affected sorghum in layer diets: quality assurance of eggs. In ‘Australian Poultry Science Symposium. 15th Australian Poultry Symposium’. (Ed. RAE Pym) p. 161–163. (University of Sydney: Sydney)

EC (1978) Report of the Scientific Committee for Animal Nutrition on the Effects of Nitrates in Feedingstuffs. Opinion expressed 19 April 1978. Available at http://ec.europa.eu/food/fs/sc/oldcomm6/other/17_en.pdf [Verified 25 January 2012]

EC (2003) Commission Directive 2003/100/EC of 31 October 2003 amending Annex I to Directive 2002/32/EC of the European Parliament and of the Council on undesirable substances in animal feed. Official Journal of the European Union L 285, 33–37.

EC (2006a) Commission Directive 2006/13/EC of 3 February 2006 amending Annexes I and II to Directive 2002/32/EC of the European Parliament and of the Council on undesirable substances in animal feed as regards dioxins and dioxin-like PCBs. Official Journal of the European Union L 32, 44–53

EC (2006b) Commission Regulation (EC) No 1881/2006 of 19 December 2006 setting maximum levels for certain contaminants in foodstuffs. Official Journal of the European Union L 364, 5–24

Edgar JA, Cockrum PA, Stewart PL, Anderton NA, Payne AL (1994) Identification of corynetoxins as the cause of poisoning associated with Annual Beard Grass (Polypogon monspeliensis (L) Desf.) and Blown Grass (Agrostis avenacea C. Gemelin). In ‘Plant-associated toxins: agricultural, phytochemical and ecological aspects’. (Eds SM Colegate, PR Dorling) pp. 393–398. (CAB International: Wallingford, UK)

EFSA (2004a) Opinion of the Scientific Panel on Contaminants in the Food Chain on a request from the Commission related to cadmium as undesirable substance in animal feed. Adopted on 2 June 2004. The EFSA Journal 72, 1–24.

EFSA (2004b) Opinion of the Scientific Panel on Contaminants in the Food Chain on a request from the Commission related to lead as undesirable substance in animal feed. Adopted on 2 June 2004. The EFSA Journal 71, 1–20.

EFSA (2004c) Opinion of the Scientific Panel on Contaminants in the Food Chain on a request from the Commission related to aflatoxin B1 as undesirable substance in animal feed. The EFSA Journal 39, 1–27.

EFSA (2004d) Opinion of the Scientific Panel on Contaminants in the Food Chain on a request from the Commission related to ochratoxin A (OTA) as undesirable substance in animal feed. The EFSA Journal 101, 1–36.

EFSA (2004e) Opinion of the Scientific Panel on Contaminants in the Food Chain on a request from the Commission related to zearalenone as undesirable substance in animal feed. The EFSA Journal 89, 1–35.

EFSA (2004f) Opinion of the Scientific Panel on Contaminants in the Food Chain on a request from the Commission related to deoxynivalenol (DON) as undesirable substance in animal feed. The EFSA Journal 73, 1–41.

EFSA (2005a) Opinion of the Scientific Panel on Contaminants in the Food Chain on a request from the Commission related to fumonisins as undesirable substances in animal feed. The EFSA Journal 235, 1–32.

EFSA (2008) Scientific Opinion of the Panel on Contaminants in the Food Chain on a request from the European Commission on gossypol as undesirable substance in animal feed. The EFSA Journal 908, 1–56.

EFSA (2009) Nitrite as undesirable substances in animal feed. Scientific opinion of the panel on contaminants in the food chain. Adopted on 25th March 2009. The EFSA Journal 1017, 1–47.

EFSA (2010a) EFSA Panel on Contaminants in the Food Chain (CONTAM); scientific opinion on polybrominated biphenyls (PBBs) in food. EFSA Journal 8, 1789. 10.2903/j.efsa.2010.1789

EFSA (2010b) EFSA Panel on Contaminants in the Food Chain (CONTAM) and EFSA Panel on Food Contact Materials, Enzymes, Flavourings and Processing Aids (CEF); scientific opinion on melamine in food and feed. EFSA Journal 8, 1573
EFSA Panel on Contaminants in the Food Chain (CONTAM) and EFSA Panel on Food Contact Materials, Enzymes, Flavourings and Processing Aids (CEF); scientific opinion on melamine in food and feed.Crossref | GoogleScholarGoogle Scholar |

EFSA (2011) EFSA Panel on Additives and Products or Substances used in Animal Feed (FEEDAP); scientific opinion on the safety of hemp (Cannabis genus) for use as animal feed. EFSA Journal 9, 2011 [41 pp.]

Eriksen GS, Pettersson H (2004) Toxicological evaluation of trichothecenes in animal feed. Animal Feed Science and Technology 114, 205–239.
Toxicological evaluation of trichothecenes in animal feed.Crossref | GoogleScholarGoogle Scholar |

EU (2011a) EU Pesticides database, Pesticide EU-MRLs Regulation (EC) No 396/2005. Available at http://ec.europa.eu/sanco_pesticides/public/index.cfm [Verified 20 December 2011]

EU (2011b) Commission Regulation (EU) No 1259/2011 of 2 December 2011 amending Regulation (EC) No. 1881/2006 as regards maximum levels for dioxins, dioxin-like PCBs and non dioxin-like PCBs in foodstuffs. Official Journal of the European Union L 320, 18–23

FAO (2004) Worldwide regulations for mycotoxins in food and feed in 2003. FAO Food and Nutrition Paper 81, Food and Agriculture Organization of the United Nations, Rome 2004. Available at http://www.fao.org/docrep/007/y5499e/y5499e00.htm#Contents [Verified 19 December 2011]

Fletcher MT, McKenzie RA, Reichmann KG, Blaney BJ (2011a) Risks from plants containing pyrrolizidine alkaloids for livestock and meat quality in northern Australia. In ‘Poisoning by plants, mycotoxins and related toxins’. (Eds F Riet-Correa, J Pfister, AL Schild, T Wierenga) pp. 208–214. (CAB International: Wallingford, UK)

Fletcher MT, Brock IJ, Reichmann KG, McKenzie RA, Blaney BJ (2011b) Norsequiterpene glycosides in bracken ferns (Pteridium esculentum and Pteridium aquilinum subsp. wightianum) from eastern Australia. Journal of Agricultural and Food Chemistry 59, 5133–5138.
Norsequiterpene glycosides in bracken ferns (Pteridium esculentum and Pteridium aquilinum subsp. wightianum) from eastern Australia.Crossref | GoogleScholarGoogle Scholar |

Forsyth DM, Yoshizawa T, Morooka N, Tuite J (1977) Emetic and refusal activity of deoxynivalenol to swine. Applied and Environmental Microbiology 34, 547–552.

Foster BC, Trenholm HL, Friend DW, Thompson BK, Hartin KE (1986) Evaluation of different sources of deoxynivalenol (vomitoxin) fed to swine. Canadian Journal of Animal Science 66, 1149–1154.
Evaluation of different sources of deoxynivalenol (vomitoxin) fed to swine.Crossref | GoogleScholarGoogle Scholar |

Francis RG, Burgess LW (1977) Characteristics of two populations of Fusarium roseum ‘Graminearum’ in eastern Australia. Transactions of the British Mycological Society 68, 421–427.
Characteristics of two populations of Fusarium roseum ‘Graminearum’ in eastern Australia.Crossref | GoogleScholarGoogle Scholar |

Franck B (1969) Structure and biosynthesis of the ergot pigments. Angewandte Chemie International Edition 8, 251–260.
Structure and biosynthesis of the ergot pigments.Crossref | GoogleScholarGoogle Scholar |

Frederickson DE, Odvody GN (1999) Sorghum ergot distinguishing sphacelia and sclerotia of Claviceps africana in seed. Texas AgLife Extension Service L-5315 6–99. Available at http://repository.tamu.edu/handle/1969.1/86830 [Verified 20 December 2011]

Frederickson DE, Mantle PG, De Milliano WAJ (1993) Windborne spread of ergot disease (Claviceps africana) in sorghum A-lines in Zimbabwe. Plant Pathology 42, 368–377.
Windborne spread of ergot disease (Claviceps africana) in sorghum A-lines in Zimbabwe.Crossref | GoogleScholarGoogle Scholar |

Friend DW, Trenholm HL, Elliot JI, Thompson BK, Hartin KE (1982) Effect of feeding vomitoxin-contaminated wheat to pigs. Canadian Journal of Animal Science 62, 1211–1222.
Effect of feeding vomitoxin-contaminated wheat to pigs.Crossref | GoogleScholarGoogle Scholar |

Fries GF (1995) A review of the significance of animal food products as potential pathways of human exposures to dioxins. Journal of Animal Science 73, 1639–1650.

FSANZ (2001) Generally Expected Levels (GELS) for metal contaminants. Additional guidelines to maximum levels in Standard 1.4.1 – contaminants and natural toxicants. Available at http://www.foodstandards.gov.au/foodstandards/userguides/generallyexpectedlev1412.cfm [Verified 20 December 2011]

FSANZ (2003) ‘The 20th Australian total diet survey: a total diet survey of pesticide residues and contaminants.’ Food Standards Australia New Zealand: Canberra) ISBN 0 642 345910.

FSANZ (2004) Dioxins in food. Dietary exposure assessment and risk characterisation. Technical Report Series No. 27. Food Standards Australia New Zealand, March 2004. Available at http://www.foodstandards.gov.au/scienceandeducation/publications/dioxinsinfooddietaryexposureassessmentandriskcharacterisation/ [Verified 20 December 2011]

FSANZ (2008) ‘The 22nd Australian total diet study: a total diet study of five trace elements: iodine, selenium, chromium, molybdenum, and nickel.’ Food Standards Australia New Zealand: Canberra) ISBN 978–0-642–34561–5.

FSANZ (2011) ‘The 23rd Australian total diet study.’ (Food Standards Australia New Zealand: Barton, ACT)

FSANZ (2012) Electronic version of the Australia New Zealand Food Standards Code. Available at http://www.foodstandards.gov.au/foodstandards/foodstandardscode.cfm [Verified 31 May 2012]

Gardiner MR, Oldroyd B (1965) Avian aflatoxicosis. Australian Veterinary Journal 41, 272–276.
Avian aflatoxicosis.Crossref | GoogleScholarGoogle Scholar |

Gilbert J, Şenyuva H (2005) Environmental contaminants and pesticides in animal feed and meat. In ‘Improving the safety of fresh meat’. (Ed. JN Sofos) pp. 132–155. (Woodhead Publishing, Ltd: Cambridge)

Goodman LS, Brunton LL, Chabner B, Knollman B (2011) ‘Goodman and Gilman’s the pharmacological basis of therapeutics.’ (McGraw-Hill Medical: New York)

Graham J (1982) Aflatoxin in peanuts: occurrence and control. Queensland Agricultural Journal 108, 119–122.

GTA (2011) 2010/11 GTA Commodity Standards. Grain Trade Australia. Available at http://www.graintrade.org.au/commodity_standards [Verified 20 December 2011]

Gumprecht LA, Smith GW, Constable PC, Haschek WM (2001) Species and organ specificity of fumonisin-induced endothelial alterations: potential role in porcine pulmonary edema. Toxicology 160, 71–79.
Species and organ specificity of fumonisin-induced endothelial alterations: potential role in porcine pulmonary edema.Crossref | GoogleScholarGoogle Scholar |

Hart L (1965) Avian aflatoxicosis. Australian Veterinary Journal 41, 395–396.
Avian aflatoxicosis.Crossref | GoogleScholarGoogle Scholar |

Harvey JM (1952) Chronic endemic fluorosis of merino sheep in Queensland. Queensland Journal of Agricultural Science 9, 47–141.

Heres L, Hoogenboom R, Herbes R, Traag W, Urlings B (2010) Tracing and analytical results of the dioxin contamination incident in 2008 originating from the Republic of Ireland. Food Additives & Contaminants: Part A 27, 1733–1744.

Hill BD, Blaney BJ (1980) Urochloa panicoides (liverseed grass) as a cause of nitrate poisoning. Australian Veterinary Journal 56, 256
Urochloa panicoides (liverseed grass) as a cause of nitrate poisoning.Crossref | GoogleScholarGoogle Scholar |

Hocking AD, Varelis P, Pitt JI, Cameron S, Leong SL (2003) Occurrence of ochratoxin A in Australian wine. Australian Journal of Grape and Wine Research 9, 72–78.
Occurrence of ochratoxin A in Australian wine.Crossref | GoogleScholarGoogle Scholar |

Hong Kong (2011) Harmful Substances in Food Regulations Regulation 3A. Prohibition of import and sale of fish, meat or milk containing prohibited substances. Hong Kong Centre for Food Safety. Available at http://www.cfs.gov.hk/english/food_leg/food_leg_hs.html#hs_reg3 [Verified 20 December 2011]

Huff WE, Wyatt RD, Hamilton PB (1975) Nephrotoxicity of dietary ochratoxin A in broiler chickens. Applied Microbiology 30, 48–51.

IARC (1993) Some naturally occurring substances: food items and constituents, heterocyclic aromatic amines and mycotoxins, Monograph 56, Lyon: International Agency for Research on Cancer. Available at http://monographs.iarc.fr/ENG/Monographs/vol56/volume56.pdf [Verified 20 December 2011]

Ichinoe M, Kurata H, Sugiura Y, Ueno Y (1983) Chemotaxonomy of Gibberella zeae with special reference to production of trichothecenes and zearalenone. Applied and Environmental Microbiology 46, 1364–1369.

Jacela JY, DeRouchey JM, Tokach MD, Goodband RD, Nelssen JL, Renter DG, Dritz SS (2010) Feed additives for swine: fact sheets – high dietary levels of copper and zinc for young pigs, and phytase. Journal of Swine Health and Production 18, 87–91.

James LF, Butcher JE (1972) Halogeton poisoning of sheep: effect of high level oxalate intake. Journal of Animal Science 35, 1233–1238.

James MP, Seawright AA, Steele DP (1971) Experimental acute ammonium oxalate poisoning of sheep. Australian Veterinary Journal 47, 9–17.
Experimental acute ammonium oxalate poisoning of sheep.Crossref | GoogleScholarGoogle Scholar |

Japan (2011a) Maximum Residue Limits (MRLs) List of Agricultural Chemicals in Foods, Positive List System for Agricultural Chemical Residues in Foods. The Japan Food Chemical Research Foundation. Available at http://www.m5.ws001.squarestart.ne.jp/foundation/search.html [Verified 20 December 2011]

Japan (2011b) Specifications and Standards for Foods, Food Additives, etc. Under the Food Sanitation Act (Abstract) 2010, April 2011. Japan External Trade Organisation. Available at http://www.jetro.go.jp/en/reports/regulations/pdf/foodext201112e.pdf [Verified 20 December 2011]

Jard G, Liboz T, Mathieu F, Guyonvarc’h A, Lebrihi A (2011) Review of mycotoxin reduction in food and feed: from prevention in the field to detoxification by absorption or transformation. Food Additives and Contaminants Part A 1–20. in press.

Kamphues J, Drochner W (1991) Mutterkorn in Futtermitteln-ein Beitrag zur Klärung moglicher mutterkornbedingter Schadensfälle. Tierarztliche Praxis 19, 1–7.

Ketterer PJ, Blaney BJ, Moore CJ, McInnes IS, Cook PW (1982) Field cases of aflatoxicosis in pigs. Australian Veterinary Journal 59, 113–118.
Field cases of aflatoxicosis in pigs.Crossref | GoogleScholarGoogle Scholar |

Kim M, Choi S-W, Park JY, Kim D-G, Bong Y-H, Jang JH, Song SO, Chung GS, Guerrero P (2009) Dioxin contamination of Chilean pork from zinc oxide in feed. Organohalogen Compounds 71, 179–182.

Kolossova A, Stroka J, Breidbach A, Kroeger K, Ambrosio M, Bouten K, Ulberth F (2009) Evaluation of the effect of mycotoxin binders in animal feed on the analytical performance of standardised methods for the determination of mycotoxins in feed. JRC Scientific and Technical Reports EUR 23997 EN – 2009. European Commission Joint Research Centre, Institute for Reference Materials and Measurement. Available at http://irmm.jrc.ec.europa.eu/activities/mycotoxins/Documents/eur_23997_en.pdf [Verified 8 December 2011]

Kopinski JS, Blaney BJ, Barram KM, Young R (1991) Responses of broilers offered diets containing the mycotoxin nivalenol. In ‘Recent advances in nutrition in Australia. University of New England, Armidale. 7–10 April’. (Ed. DJ Farrell) p. 30A. (University of New England: Armidale, NSW)

Kopinski JS, Blaney BJ, Downing JA, McVeigh JF, Murray S-A (2007) Feeding sorghum ergot (Claviceps africana) to sows before farrowing inhibits milk production. Australian Veterinary Journal 85, 169–176.
Feeding sorghum ergot (Claviceps africana) to sows before farrowing inhibits milk production.Crossref | GoogleScholarGoogle Scholar |

Kopinski JS, Blaney BJ, Downing JA (2008a) Tolerance of pigs to sorghum ergot (Claviceps africana) during growth and finishing, and effect on conception of replacement gilts. Australian Journal of Experimental Agriculture 48, 672–679.
Tolerance of pigs to sorghum ergot (Claviceps africana) during growth and finishing, and effect on conception of replacement gilts.Crossref | GoogleScholarGoogle Scholar |

Kopinski J, Blaney BJ, Downing JA (2008b) Effect of 0.3% sorghum ergot (Claviceps africana) in sow diets on plasma prolactin, lactation and piglet growth: regulatory implications. World Mycotoxin Journal 1, 475–482.
Effect of 0.3% sorghum ergot (Claviceps africana) in sow diets on plasma prolactin, lactation and piglet growth: regulatory implications.Crossref | GoogleScholarGoogle Scholar |

Kopinski JS, Blaney BJ, Murray SA, Downing JA (2008c) Effect of feeding sorghum ergot (Claviceps africana) to sows during mid-lactation on plasma prolactin and litter performance. Journal of Animal Physiology and Animal Nutrition 92, 554–561.
Effect of feeding sorghum ergot (Claviceps africana) to sows during mid-lactation on plasma prolactin and litter performance.Crossref | GoogleScholarGoogle Scholar |

Korea (2009) MRLs for pesticides 09 2009, Korean Food and Drug Administration. Available at http://eng.kfda.go.kr/file/PesiticideMRLs.pdf [Verified 20 December 2011]

Korea (2011) Food Code, Korean Food and Drug Administration. Available at http://eng.kfda.go.kr/index.php [Verified 20 December 2011]

Krogh P, Elling F, Hald B, Jylling B, Petersen VE, Skadhauge E, Svendsen CK (1976) Experimental avian nephropathy. Changes of renal function and structure induced by ochratoxin A-contaminated feed. Acta Pathologica et Microbiologica Scandinavica 84, 215–221.

Kuiper-Goodman T, Grant DL (2007) Ochratoxin A (First draft) WHO Food Additive Series 28. Available at http://www.inchem.org/documents/jecfa/jecmono/v28je19.htm [Verified 20 December 2011]

Leslie JF, Marasas WFO (2001) Fusarium from sorghum: life in interesting times. In ‘Proceeding of the 22nd biennial grain sorghum research and utilisation conference, 2001 sorghum industry conference. 18–20 February 2001. Nashville, Tennessee, USA’. pp. 76–83.

Lorenz K (1979) Ergot on cereal grains. CRC Critical Reviews in Food Science, and Nutrition 11, 311–354.

LPA (2011) Livestock Production Assurance. Available at http://www.mla.com.au/Meat-safety-and-traceability/On-farm-assurance/LPA [Verified 20 December 2011]

Lutze J, Derrick J, Korth W, MacLachlan DJ (2009) Monitoring of pesticides and veterinary drugs in Australian cattle: verification of the residue control system. Food Additives and Contaminants: Part B: Surveillance 2, 99–111.
Monitoring of pesticides and veterinary drugs in Australian cattle: verification of the residue control system.Crossref | GoogleScholarGoogle Scholar |

MacLachlan DJ (2011) Estimating the transfer of contaminants in animal feedstuffs to livestock tissues, milk and eggs: a review. Animal Production Science 51, 1067–1078.
Estimating the transfer of contaminants in animal feedstuffs to livestock tissues, milk and eggs: a review.Crossref | GoogleScholarGoogle Scholar |

MacLachlan DJ, Bhula R (2008) Estimating the residue transfer of pesticides in animal feedstuffs to livestock tissues, milk and eggs: a review. Australian Journal of Experimental Agriculture 48, 589–598.
Estimating the residue transfer of pesticides in animal feedstuffs to livestock tissues, milk and eggs: a review.Crossref | GoogleScholarGoogle Scholar |

Madsen A, Mortensen HP, Hald B (1982a) Feeding experiments with ochratoxin A contaminated barley for bacon pigs. I. Influence on pig performance and residues. Acta Agriculturae Scandinavica 32, 225–239.
Feeding experiments with ochratoxin A contaminated barley for bacon pigs. I. Influence on pig performance and residues.Crossref | GoogleScholarGoogle Scholar |

Madsen A, Hald B, Lillehoj E, Mortensen HP (1982b) Feeding experiments with ochratoxin A contaminated barley for bacon pigs. 2. Naturally contaminated barely given for 6 weeks from 20 kg compared with normal barley supplemented with crystalline ochratoxin A and/or citrinin. Acta Agriculturae Scandinavica 32, 369–372.
Feeding experiments with ochratoxin A contaminated barley for bacon pigs. 2. Naturally contaminated barely given for 6 weeks from 20 kg compared with normal barley supplemented with crystalline ochratoxin A and/or citrinin.Crossref | GoogleScholarGoogle Scholar |

Mainka S, Dänicke S, Böhme H, Ueberschär K-H, Polten S, Hüther L (2005) The influence of ergot-contaminated feed on growth and slaughtering performance, nutrient digestibility and carry-over of ergot alkaloids in growing-finishing pigs. Archives of Animal Nutrition 59, 377–395.
The influence of ergot-contaminated feed on growth and slaughtering performance, nutrient digestibility and carry-over of ergot alkaloids in growing-finishing pigs.Crossref | GoogleScholarGoogle Scholar |

Mannion PF, Blaney BJ (1988) Responses of meat chickens offered 4-deoxynivalenol and zearalenone-containing wheat, naturally infected with Fusarium graminearum. Australian Journal of Agricultural Research 39, 533–540.
Responses of meat chickens offered 4-deoxynivalenol and zearalenone-containing wheat, naturally infected with Fusarium graminearum.Crossref | GoogleScholarGoogle Scholar |

Mantle PG (1973) Production of ergot alkaloids in vitro by Sphacelia sorghi. Journal of General Microbiology 75, 275–281.
Production of ergot alkaloids in vitro by Sphacelia sorghi.Crossref | GoogleScholarGoogle Scholar |

Marasas WFO (1996) Fumonisins: history, worldwide occurrence and impact. In ‘Fumonisins in food’. (Eds LS Jackson, JW DeVries, LB Bullerman) pp. 1–17. (Plenum Press: New York)

Maryamma KI, Manomohan CB, Nair MG, Ismail PK, Sreekumaran T, Rajan A (1992) Pathology of zearalenone toxicosis in chicken and evaluation of zearalenone residues in tissues. The Indian Journal of Animal Sciences 62, 105–107.

McKenzie RA, Blaney BJ, Connole MD, Fitzpatrick LA (1981) Acute aflatoxicosis in calves fed peanut hay. Australian Veterinary Journal 57, 284–286.
Acute aflatoxicosis in calves fed peanut hay.Crossref | GoogleScholarGoogle Scholar |

McKenzie RA, Bell AM, Storie GJ, Keenan FJ, Cornack KM, Grant SG (1988) Acute oxalate poisoning of sheep by buffel grass (Cenchrus ciliaris). Australian Veterinary Journal 65, 26
Acute oxalate poisoning of sheep by buffel grass (Cenchrus ciliaris).Crossref | GoogleScholarGoogle Scholar |

McLennan SR, Blaney BJ, Kidd JF, Connell JA, Doogan V (2001) Effects of sorghum ergot on the performance of cattle in feedlots. [Abstract] In ‘Proceedings from the fourth Australian sorghum conference. Kooralbyn, Queensland, 5–8 February 2001’. (Eds AK Borrell, RG Henzell) (CD-ROM) (Range Media Pty Ltd: Toowoomba, Qld)

Meyer A (1999) Mutterkorn in der Ration. Hannoversche Land- und Forstwirtsch. Zeitung 28, 32–33.

Miller JD (2008) Mycotoxins in small grains and maize: old problems, new challenges. Food Additives and Contaminants 25, 219–230.
Mycotoxins in small grains and maize: old problems, new challenges.Crossref | GoogleScholarGoogle Scholar |

Moore CJ, Blaney BJ, Spencer RA, Dodman RL (1985) Rejection by pigs of mouldy grain containing deoxynivalenol. Australian Veterinary Journal 62, 60–62.
Rejection by pigs of mouldy grain containing deoxynivalenol.Crossref | GoogleScholarGoogle Scholar |

Moss RJ, Blaney BJ, Casey ND, Gobius NR, Jonsson NN (1999) Ergot (Claviceps africana) contamination of sorghum grain reduces milk production. Recent Advances in Animal Nutrition in Australia 12, 21A.

Müller HM, Lerch C, Müller K, Eggert W (1998) Kinetic profiles of ochratoxin A and ochratoxin alpha during in vitro incubation in buffered forestomach and abomasal contents from cows. Natural Toxins 6, 251–258.
Kinetic profiles of ochratoxin A and ochratoxin alpha during in vitro incubation in buffered forestomach and abomasal contents from cows.Crossref | GoogleScholarGoogle Scholar |

Munkvold G, Desjardins A (1997) Fumonisins in maize: can we reduce their occurrence? Plant Disease 81, 556–565.
Fumonisins in maize: can we reduce their occurrence?Crossref | GoogleScholarGoogle Scholar |

NRC (2005) ‘Mineral tolerance of animals.’ 2nd rev. edn. (Committee on Minerals and Toxic Substances in Diets and Water for Animals, National Research Council. National Academies Press: New York)

NRS (1997) ‘Metals in meat, National Residue Survey, 1997.’ (NRS: Canberra)

NSW (2010) Stock Foods Regulation 2010. Available at http://www.legislation.nsw.gov.au/sessionalview/sessional/sr/2010-451.pdf [Verified 20 December 2011]

Olsen M, Mirocha CJ, Abbas HK, Johansson B (1986) Metabolism of high concentrations of dietary zearalenone by young male turkey poults. Poultry Science 65, 1905–1910.
Metabolism of high concentrations of dietary zearalenone by young male turkey poults.Crossref | GoogleScholarGoogle Scholar |

Oresanya TF, Patience JF, Zijlstra RT, Beaulieu AD, Middleton DM, Blakey BR, Gillis DA (2003) Defining the tolerable level of ergot in the diet of weaned pigs. Canadian Journal of Animal Science 83, 493–500.
Defining the tolerable level of ergot in the diet of weaned pigs.Crossref | GoogleScholarGoogle Scholar |

Øvernes G, Matre T, Sivertsen T, Larsen HJS, Langseth W, Reitan LJ, Jansen JH (1997) Effects of diets with graded levels of naturally deoxynivalenol-contaminated oats on immune response in growing pigs. Journal of Veterinary Medicine Series A. Animal Physiology, Pathology, and Clinical Veterinary Medicine 44, 539–550.
Effects of diets with graded levels of naturally deoxynivalenol-contaminated oats on immune response in growing pigs.Crossref | GoogleScholarGoogle Scholar |

Page RK, Stewart G, Wyatt R, Bush P, Fletcher OJ, Brown J (1980) Influence of low levels of ochratoxin A on egg production, egg-shell stains, and serum uric-acid levels in Leghorn-type hens. Avian Diseases 24, 777–780.
Influence of low levels of ochratoxin A on egg production, egg-shell stains, and serum uric-acid levels in Leghorn-type hens.Crossref | GoogleScholarGoogle Scholar |

Park DL, Troxell TC (2002) US Perspective on mycotoxin regulatory issues. In ‘Advances in Experimental Medicine and Biology, Vol. 504: Mycotoxins and food safety’. (Eds JW DeVries, MW Trucksess, LS Jackson) pp. 277–285. (Kluwer Academic/Plenum Publishers: New York)

Parkheava AI (1979) Excretion of ergot alkaloids with milk. Veterinariya (Moscow) 11, 76–77.

Petterson DS, Sipsas S, Mackintosh JB (1997) ‘The chemical composition and nutritive value of Australian pulses.’ 2nd edn. (Grains Research and Development Corporation: Canberra)

Pettersson H (2004) Controlling mycotoxins in animal feed. In ‘Mycotoxins in food: detection and control’. Woodhead Publishing Series in Food Science, Technology and Nutrition No. 103. (Eds N Magan, M Olsen) pp. 262–304. (Woodhead Publishing: Cambridge, UK)

Pitt JI, Basilico JC, Abarca ML, Lopez C (2000) Mycotoxins and toxigenic fungi. Medical Mycology 38, 41–46.

Prior MG, Sisodia CS (1978) Ochratoxicosis in White Leghorn hens. Poultry Science 57, 619–623.
Ochratoxicosis in White Leghorn hens.Crossref | GoogleScholarGoogle Scholar |

Puls R (1994) ‘Mineral levels in animal health.’ 2nd edn. (Sherpa International: Clearbrook)

Qld (1988) Stock Regulations 1988. Available at http://www.legislation.qld.gov.au [Verified 15 October 2012]

Qld (1997) Agricultural Standards Regulations 1997. Available at http://www.legislation.qld.gov.au [Verified 15 October 2012]

Rachaputi N, Wright GC, Krosch S (2002) Management practices to minimise pre-harvest aflatoxin contamination in Australian peanuts. Australian Journal of Experimental Agriculture 42, 595–605.
Management practices to minimise pre-harvest aflatoxin contamination in Australian peanuts.Crossref | GoogleScholarGoogle Scholar |

Rahman MM, Abdullah RB, Wan Khadijah WE (2012) A review of oxalate poisoning in domestic animals: tolerance and performance aspects. Journal of Animal Physiology and Animal Nutrition
A review of oxalate poisoning in domestic animals: tolerance and performance aspects.Crossref | GoogleScholarGoogle Scholar | in press.

Reed KFM, Moore DD (2009) A preliminary survey of zearalenone and other mycotoxins in Australian silage and pasture. Animal Production Science 49, 696–703.
A preliminary survey of zearalenone and other mycotoxins in Australian silage and pasture.Crossref | GoogleScholarGoogle Scholar |

Reed KFM, Page SW, Lean IJ (Eds) (2005) ‘Perennial ryegrass toxicosis in Australia. Proceedings of a symposium held on Friday 18 March 2005 at Attwood, Victoria.’ (Meat and Livestock Australia: Sydney)

Reichmann KG, Blaney BJ, Connor JK, Runge BM (1982) The significance of aflatoxin and ochratoxin in the diet of Australian chickens. Australian Veterinary Journal 58, 211–212.
The significance of aflatoxin and ochratoxin in the diet of Australian chickens.Crossref | GoogleScholarGoogle Scholar |

Robertson ID, Naprasnik A, Morrow D (1990) The sources of pesticide contamination in Queensland livestock. Australian Veterinary Journal 67, 152–153.
The sources of pesticide contamination in Queensland livestock.Crossref | GoogleScholarGoogle Scholar |

Rotter RG, Marquardt RR, Young JC (1985a) Effect of ergot from different source and of fractionated ergot on the performance of growing chicks. Canadian Journal of Animal Science 65, 953–961.
Effect of ergot from different source and of fractionated ergot on the performance of growing chicks.Crossref | GoogleScholarGoogle Scholar |

Rotter RG, Marquardt RR, Crow GH (1985b) A comparison of the effect of increasing dietary concentration of wheat ergot on the performance of leghorn and broiler chicks. Canadian Journal of Animal Science 65, 963–974.
A comparison of the effect of increasing dietary concentration of wheat ergot on the performance of leghorn and broiler chicks.Crossref | GoogleScholarGoogle Scholar |

Rotter BA, Thompson BK, Lessard M, Trenholm HL, Tryphonas H (1994) Influence of low-level exposure to Fusarium mycotoxins on selected immunological and haematological parameters in young swine. Fundamental and Applied Toxicology 23, 117–124.
Influence of low-level exposure to Fusarium mycotoxins on selected immunological and haematological parameters in young swine.Crossref | GoogleScholarGoogle Scholar |

Russia (2010) Food raw material and foodstuff – hygienic requirements for safety and nutrition value of foodstuff. SanPiN 2.3.2.1078–01, unofficial English translation. Available at http://ec.europa.eu/food/international/trade/rf_allfoodprod_en.htm [Verified 20 December 2011]

Ryley MJ, Alcorn JL, Kochman JK, Kong GA, Thompson SM (1996) Ergot on Sorghum spp. in Australia. Australasian Plant Pathology 25, 214
Ergot on Sorghum spp. in Australia.Crossref | GoogleScholarGoogle Scholar |

Safemeat (2007) Managing for cadmium minimisation in Australian livestock. Safemeat, Australia. Available at http://www.cadmium-management.org.au/documents/cadmium-livestock.pdf [Verified 15 November 2011]

Schumann B, Dänicke S, Meyer U, Ueberschär K-H, Breves G (2007) Effects of different levels of ergot in concentrates on the growing and slaughtering performance of bulls and on carry-over into edible tissue. Archives of Animal Nutrition 61, 357–370.
Effects of different levels of ergot in concentrates on the growing and slaughtering performance of bulls and on carry-over into edible tissue.Crossref | GoogleScholarGoogle Scholar |

Schumann B, Lebzien P, Ueberschär K-H, Dänicke S (2009) Effects of the level of feed intake and ergot contaminated concentrate on ergot alkaloid metabolism and carry over into milk. Molecular Nutrition & Food Research 53, 931–938.
Effects of the level of feed intake and ergot contaminated concentrate on ergot alkaloid metabolism and carry over into milk.Crossref | GoogleScholarGoogle Scholar |

Seawright AA, Groenendyk S, Silva KI (1970) An outbreak of oxalate poisoning in cattle grazing Setaria sphacelata. Australian Veterinary Journal 46, 293–296.
An outbreak of oxalate poisoning in cattle grazing Setaria sphacelata.Crossref | GoogleScholarGoogle Scholar |

Seifert KA, Aoki T, Baayen RP, Brayford D, Burgess L, Chulze S, Gamms W, Geiser D, de Gruyter J, Leslie JF, Logrieco A, Marasas WFO, Nirenberg HI, O’Donnell K, Rheeder J, Samuals GJ, Summerell BA, Thrane U, Waalwijk C (2003) The name Fusarium moniliforme should no longer be used. Mycological Research News 643–644.
The name Fusarium moniliforme should no longer be used.Crossref | GoogleScholarGoogle Scholar |

Shanks G, Tabak P, Begg AP, Bryden WL (1995) An outbreak of acute leukoencephalomalacia associated with fumonisin intoxication in three horses. Australian Equine Veterinarian 13, 17–18.

Shaw FD, Eustace IJ (1993) Chemical residues in meat. In ‘Meat ‘93. The Australian meat industry research conference. Gold Coast, Queensland, 11–13 October 1993’. Available at http://www.meatupdate.csiro.au/data/Meat_93_28.pdf [Verified 20 December 2011]

Smith JF, Morris CA (2006) Review of zearalenone studies with sheep in New Zealand. Proceedings of the New Zealand Society of Animal Production 66, 306–310.

Smith JF, di Menna ME, McGowan LT (1990) Reproductive performance of Coopworth ewes following oral doses of zearalenone before and after mating. Journal of Reproduction and Fertility 89, 99–106.
Reproductive performance of Coopworth ewes following oral doses of zearalenone before and after mating.Crossref | GoogleScholarGoogle Scholar |

Southwell R, Moore K, Manning W, Hayman P (2003) An outbreak of Fusarium head blight of durum wheat on the Liverpool Plains in northern New South Wales in 1999. Australasian Plant Pathology 32, 465–471.
An outbreak of Fusarium head blight of durum wheat on the Liverpool Plains in northern New South Wales in 1999.Crossref | GoogleScholarGoogle Scholar |

Spencer A (2010) Factsheet: toxic weed seeds, Queensland Department of Primary Industries and Fisheries. Available at http://www.dpi.qld.gov.au/27_11766.htm [Verified 25 January 2012]

Stoll A (1952) Recent investigations on ergot alkaloids. In ‘Progress in the chemistry of organic natural products’. (Ed. L Zechmeister) pp. 114–174. (Springer-Verlag: Vienna)

Suttle NF (2010) ‘Mineral nutrition of livestock.’ 4th edn. (CABI: Oxford)

Taiwan (2009a) 26 Standards for pesticide residue limits in livestock and poultry products 2009–12–24. Available at http://www.fda.gov.tw/eng/people_laws_list.aspx?pages=1&keyword=&classifysn=16 [Verified 20 December 2011]

Taiwan (2009b) 23 Standard for the tolerance of polychlorinated biphenyl in foods. Food Sanitation Standards 2009–12–24. Available at http://www.fda.gov.tw/eng/people_laws_list.aspx?pages=1&keyword=&classifysn=16 [Verified 20 December 2011]

Taiwan (2009c) 32 Standard for the tolerance of heavy metals in edible offal of cattle, sheep, pig and poultry 2009–12–24. Available at http://www.fda.gov.tw/eng/people_laws_list.aspx?pages=1&keyword=&classifysn=16 [Verified 20 December 2011]

Taiwan (2009d) 47 Standard for the tolerance of mycotoxins in foods 2009–12–04. Available at http://www.fda.gov.tw/eng/people_laws_list.aspx?pages=1&keyword=&classifysn=16 [Verified 20 December 2011]

Tapia MO, Seawright AA (1984) Experimental ochratoxicosis A in pigs. Australian Veterinary Journal 61, 219–222.
Experimental ochratoxicosis A in pigs.Crossref | GoogleScholarGoogle Scholar |

Tinggi U (2003) Essentiality and toxicity of selenium and its status in Australia: a review. Toxicology Letters 137, 103–110.
Essentiality and toxicity of selenium and its status in Australia: a review.Crossref | GoogleScholarGoogle Scholar |

Tobin NF (1988) Presence of deoxynivalenol in Australian wheat and triticale – New South Wales Northern Rivers region 1983. Australian Journal of Experimental Agriculture 28, 107–110.
Presence of deoxynivalenol in Australian wheat and triticale – New South Wales Northern Rivers region 1983.Crossref | GoogleScholarGoogle Scholar |

Towers NR, Sprosen JM, Webber W (1995) Zearalenone metabolites in cycling and non-cycling cows. In ‘Toxinology and food safety’. pp. 46–47. (Toxinology and Food Safety Research Group, Ruakura Research Centre: Hamilton, New Zealand)

Trenholm HL, Hamilton RMG, Friend DW, Thompson BK, Hartin KE (1984) Feeding trials with vomitoxin (deoxynivalenol)-contaminated wheat: effects on swine, poultry and dairy cattle. Journal of the American Veterinary Medical Association 185, 527–531.

Trenholm HL, Foster BC, Charmley LL, Thompson BK, Hartin KE, Coppock RW, Albassam MA (1994) Effects of feeding diets containing Fusarium (naturally) contaminated wheat or pure deoxynivalenol (DON) in growing pigs. Canadian Journal of Animal Science 74, 361–369.
Effects of feeding diets containing Fusarium (naturally) contaminated wheat or pure deoxynivalenol (DON) in growing pigs.Crossref | GoogleScholarGoogle Scholar |

Ueno Y (1983) Historical background of trichothecene problems. In ‘Trichothecenes – chemical, biological and toxicological aspects’. (Ed. Y Ueno) pp. 1–6. (Elsevier: Tokyo)

USFDA (2001a) Background paper in support of fumonisin levels in animal feed. Center for Food Safety and Applied Nutrition, Food and Drug Administration. Available at http://www.cfsan.fda.gov [Verified 20 December 2011]

USFDA (2001b) Guidance for Industry – fumonisin levels in human foods and animal feeds final guidance. Center for Food Safety and Applied Nutrition, Food and Drug Administration. Available at http://www.cfsan.fda.gov [Verified 20 December 2011]

USFDA (2010) Guidance for Industry and FDA: advisory levels for deoxynivalenol (DON) in finished wheat products for human consumption and grains and grain by-products used for animal feed. Available at http://www.fda.gov/Food/GuidanceComplianceRegulatoryInformation/GuidanceDocuments/NaturalToxins/ucm120184.htm [Verified 20 December 2011]

USFDA (2011) Compliance Policy Guides (CPG). Chapter 5 – food, colors, and cosmetics. Inspections, compliance, enforcement, and criminal investigations, US FDA. Available at http://www.fda.gov/downloads/ICECI/ComplianceManuals/CompliancePolicyGuidanceManual/UCM186872.pdf [Verified 1 June 2012]

van den Berg M, Birnbaum L, Bosveld ATC, Brunström B, Cook P, Feeley M, Giesy JP, Hanberg A, Hasegawa R, Kennedy SW, Kubiak T, Larsen JC, van Leeuwen FXR, Liem AKD, Nolt C, Peterson RE, Poellinger L, Safe S, Schrenk D, Tillitt D, Tysklind M, Younes M, Waern F, Zacharewski T (1998) Toxic Equivalency Factors (TEFs) for PCBs, PCDDs, PCDFs for humans and for wildlife. Environmental Health Perspectives 106, 775–792.
Toxic Equivalency Factors (TEFs) for PCBs, PCDDs, PCDFs for humans and for wildlife.Crossref | GoogleScholarGoogle Scholar |

van den Berg M, Birnbaum LS, Denison M, De Vito M, Farland W, Feeley M, Fiedler H, Hakansson H, Hanberg A, Haws L, Rose M, Safe S, Schrenk D, Tohyama C, Tritscher A, Tuomisto J, Tysklind M, Walker N, Peterson RE (2006) The 2005 World Health Organization reevaluation of human and mammalian toxic equivalency factors for dioxins and dioxin-like compounds. Toxicological Sciences 93, 223–241.
The 2005 World Health Organization reevaluation of human and mammalian toxic equivalency factors for dioxins and dioxin-like compounds.Crossref | GoogleScholarGoogle Scholar |

Vic. (1992) Agricultural and Veterinary Chemicals (Control of Use) Act 1992. Available at http://www.legislation.vic.gov.au/ [Verified 23 November 2012]

WA (2006) Veterinary Chemical Control and Animal Feeding Stuffs Regulations 2006. Available at http://www.austlii.edu.au/au/legis/wa/consol_reg/vccaafsr2006581/ [Verified 20 December 2011]

Watson A, Burgess LW, Summerell BA, O’Keeffe K (2006) Fusarium spp. associated with ear rot of maize in the Murrumbidgee irrigation area of New South Wales. In ‘Water to gold: Proceedings of the Maize Association of Australia 6th triennial conference. Griffiths, NSW’. pp. 127–130. (Maize Association of Australia: Darlington Point, NSW)

Wearing AH, Burgess LW (1978) Distribution and mode of survival of Fusarium roseum ‘graminearum’ Group 2 in maize soils of eastern Australia. Transactions of the British Mycological Society 70, 480–486.
Distribution and mode of survival of Fusarium roseum ‘graminearum’ Group 2 in maize soils of eastern Australia.Crossref | GoogleScholarGoogle Scholar |

Webley DJ, Jackson KL (1998) Mycotoxins in cereals – a comparison between North America, Europe and Australia. In ‘Stored grain in Australia. Proceedings of the Australian postharvest technical conference 1998’. (Eds HJ Banks, EJ Wright and KA Damcevski) pp. 63–66. (CSIRO Stored Grain Research Laboratory: Canberra)

Weidenbörner M (2001) ‘Encyclopedia of food mycotoxins.’ (Springer: Berlin)

Whitaker TB (2003) Detecting mycotoxins in agricultural commodities. Molecular Biotechnology 23, 61–71.
Detecting mycotoxins in agricultural commodities.Crossref | GoogleScholarGoogle Scholar |

Whittemore CT, Macer RCF, Miller JK, Mantle PG (1976) Some consequences of the ingestion by young and growing pigs of feed contaminated with ergot. Research in Veterinary Science 20, 61–69.

Whittemore CT, Miller JK, Mantle PG (1977) Further studies concerning the toxicity of ingested ergot sclerotia (Claviceps purpurea) to young and growing pigs. Research in Veterinary Science 22, 146–150.

Williams KC, Blaney BJ (1994) Effect of the mycotoxins, nivalenol and zearalenone, in maize naturally infected with Fusarium graminearum on the performance of growing and pregnant pigs. Australian Journal of Agricultural Research 45, 1265–1279.
Effect of the mycotoxins, nivalenol and zearalenone, in maize naturally infected with Fusarium graminearum on the performance of growing and pregnant pigs.Crossref | GoogleScholarGoogle Scholar |

Williams KC, Blaney BJ, Magee MH (1988) Responses of pigs fed wheat naturally infected with Fusarium graminearum and containing the mycotoxins 4-deoxynivalenol and zearalenone. Australian Journal of Agricultural Research 39, 1095–1105.
Responses of pigs fed wheat naturally infected with Fusarium graminearum and containing the mycotoxins 4-deoxynivalenol and zearalenone.Crossref | GoogleScholarGoogle Scholar |

Williams KC, Blaney BJ, Dodman RL, Palmer CL (1992) Assessment for animal feed of maize kernels naturally infected predominantly with Fusarium moniliforme and Diplodia maydis: I. Fungal isolations and changes in chemical composition. Australian Journal of Agricultural Research 43, 773–782.
Assessment for animal feed of maize kernels naturally infected predominantly with Fusarium moniliforme and Diplodia maydis: I. Fungal isolations and changes in chemical composition.Crossref | GoogleScholarGoogle Scholar |

Williamson PM, Highet AS, Gams W, Siva-Sithamparam K, Cowling WA (1994) Diaporthe toxica sp. nov., the cause of lupinosis in sheep. Mycological Research 98, 1364–1368.
Diaporthe toxica sp. nov., the cause of lupinosis in sheep.Crossref | GoogleScholarGoogle Scholar |

Wolff J (1989) Ergot in cereals. In ‘Report of the practitioner information meeting, Grub, Bavaria, 14 March 1989’. pp. 28–36. (Bavarian Ministry of Food, Agriculture and Forestry)

Wolff J, Richter WIF, Spann B (1995) Mutterkornalkaloide in der Milch? VDLUFA Schriftenreihe, Kongressband 18, 515–524.

Young JC, Chen Z (1982) Variability in the content and composition of alkaloids found in Canadian ergot. III. Triticale and barley. Journal of Environmental Science and Health. Part. B, Pesticides, Food Contaminants, and Agricultural Wastes 17, 93–107.
Variability in the content and composition of alkaloids found in Canadian ergot. III. Triticale and barley.Crossref | GoogleScholarGoogle Scholar |

Young JC, Marquardt RR (1982) Effects of ergotamine tartrate in growing chicken. Canadian Journal of Animal Science 62, 1181–1191.
Effects of ergotamine tartrate in growing chicken.Crossref | GoogleScholarGoogle Scholar |

Young LG, McGirr L, Valli VE, Lumsden JH, Lun A (1983) Vomitoxin in corn fed to young pigs. Journal of Animal Science 57, 655–664.

Zomborszky MK, Vetési F, Repa I, Kovács F, Bata A, Horn P, Tóth A, Romvári R (2000) Experiment to determine limits of tolerance for fumonisin B1 in weaned piglets. Journal of Veterinary Medicine. B, Infectious Diseases and Veterinary Public Health 47, 277–286.
Experiment to determine limits of tolerance for fumonisin B1 in weaned piglets.Crossref | GoogleScholarGoogle Scholar |