Mycotoxins: Anticipating Risks in 2025 Amidst Evolving Climate Conditions
In 2024, unfavorable weather conditions—particularly persistent rainfall and high humidity—led to a resurgence of mycotoxin contamination throughout the agri-food supply chain. This situation prompted several product recalls listed on the official RappelConso platform, underscoring the need to strengthen controls and conduct regular mycotoxin analyses. As we approach 2025, agri-food professionals, farmers, industrial players, and distributors must remain vigilant. Climate variability and changes in agricultural ecosystems can increase mycotoxin risk and have a lasting impact on the quality and safety of food products.
Mycotoxins: Mold-Derived Contaminants
Mycotoxins are secondary metabolites produced by certain molds (Aspergillus, Fusarium, Penicillium, etc.). They are found in a wide range of raw materials and finished products, including grains, nuts, coffee, and spices, making them a major food safety concern. Their effects range from growth disorders to confirmed carcinogenic risks for humans, requiring constant vigilance by the agri-food sector.
Climate change, already noticeable in Europe, is shifting the geographic distribution of toxin-producing fungi and leading to the emergence of new toxins—such as aflatoxin, historically rare in temperate regions. Thus, mycotoxin production can fluctuate with the climate, challenging predictive models and established preventive strategies.
2024 as a Wake-Up Call: Why Prepare for 2025?
In 2024, warm, humid conditions acted as a catalyst for fungal development, promoting the growth of mycotoxin-producing molds on crops like corn and wheat. Scientific research and institutional reports have documented how variations in temperature, humidity, and wet/dry cycles can influence both the type and quantity of mycotoxins produced.
As climatic conditions evolve, fungal species previously confined to certain regions (e.g., Aspergillus flavus, which produces aflatoxins) are expanding into new areas, thereby increasing mycotoxin risk for crops that were previously less affected. Observed in 2024, this trend is likely to continue in 2025, prompting professionals to anticipate changes, adapt their practices, and reinforce their risk management strategies.
Product Recalls and Rethinking Practices
The product recalls listed on RappelConso due to mycotoxin contamination reflect a shifting landscape. Today, agri-food professionals must consider several adaptations: selecting more resistant crop varieties, adjusting agricultural practices, closely monitoring storage conditions, and most importantly, performing regular mycotoxin analyses.
Adapting Through Robust and Innovative Mycotoxin Analyses
To secure the quality of products in 2025 and beyond, it is essential to implement analytical methods that are reliable, sensitive, and specific. Whether using liquid chromatography coupled with mass spectrometry, rapid screening kits, or more advanced solutions, these controls allow for the early detection of contamination.
An expert partner like WESSLING (ALS) can support the industry in developing tailored monitoring plans, tracking contamination trends, and providing technical guidance. This expertise, integrated into a comprehensive strategy for managing mycotoxin risk, helps secure supply chains and maintain consumer confidence.
Conclusion: Vigilance and Anticipation in 2025
The situation observed in 2024 highlights the complexity of the interplay between climate, agricultural practices, and the evolution of mycotoxins. In 2025, the key lies in anticipating changes, adapting protocols, enhancing monitoring, and relying on advanced mycotoxin analyses. In a rapidly evolving climate context, only foresight, responsiveness, and expert support can ensure the safety and quality of food products.
Your dedicated contact
- Léna Soukharevskoff
- +33 6 28 25 30 98
- lena.soukharevskoff@wessling.fr
