Fumonisin

Fumonisins are a family of mycotoxins produced by the molds Fusarium moniliforme and F. proliferatum. These molds commonly infect corn (in fact, they are considered ubiquitous in corn) and rice, hence the potential for fumonisins to be found in feed and foodstuffs is high. Fumonisins affect various animals differently and have been linked to esophageal cancer in humans. The Environmental Protection Agency classifies fumonisins as Category II-B carcinogens. Horses are extremely sensitive to low amounts of fumonisin, which can cause leukoencephalomalcia (liquefaction of the brain). In swine, research has shown fumonisin attacks the cardiopulmonary system causing pulmonary edema, as well as liver and pancreatic lesions. The FDA has issued guidelines for total fumonisins (FB1+FB2+FB3) in corn and corn by-products in food and animal feeds.