Feed contamination as an often-overlooked source of poultry suffering
Mycotoxins — toxic compounds produced by molds growing on grain and other feed ingredients — cause widespread welfare harm to poultry that is often unrecognized. Subclinical mycotoxin exposure reduces immune function, causes gut damage, impairs neurological function, and generates systemic inflammation — all representing genuine animal suffering even without visible clinical disease. Climate change is increasing mycotoxin prevalence by expanding the geographic range and intensity of mold growth in crops.
Aflatoxins (Aspergillus): Liver damage, immune suppression, reduced growth, cancer. Causes chronic illness and suffering before clinical signs emerge.
Fumonisins (Fusarium): Neurological effects, immune suppression, liver and kidney damage in poultry.
Trichothecenes (DON/Vomitoxin): Strong emetic and appetite-suppressing effects. Birds actively refuse contaminated feed when possible — clear behavioral evidence of aversion.
Ochratoxin A: Kidney damage, immune suppression, impaired thermoregulation.
Zearalenone: Estrogenic compound affecting reproduction; causes welfare harms to breeding stock.