# Evaluating fumonisin contamination in cattle feed: Impact on animal health, the agriculture industry and regulatory considerations

## TL;DR

This paper evaluates whether current fumonisin guidelines for cattle feed should be updated based on new research and statistical methods.

## Contribution

The study compares meta-analysis and benchmark dose modeling to assess if fumonisin guidelines for cattle need revision.

## Key findings

- New data does not significantly refine the dose–response relationship for fumonisin in cattle.
- Current 60 mg/kg guideline remains appropriate based on recent studies.
- Fumonisin levels up to 108.8 mg/kg did not show significant adverse effects in cattle over 110 days.

## Abstract

•Current regulatory guidance for fumonisin in ruminant rations is based on limited studies conducted before 2001.•A 2020 study found that cattle fed above the recommended level for 110 days did not show significant adverse effects.•This paper explores refining fumonisin guidance using a comparative approach of a meta-analysis vs. benchmark dose modeling.

Current regulatory guidance for fumonisin in ruminant rations is based on limited studies conducted before 2001.

A 2020 study found that cattle fed above the recommended level for 110 days did not show significant adverse effects.

This paper explores refining fumonisin guidance using a comparative approach of a meta-analysis vs. benchmark dose modeling.

In 2001, the US FDA released guidance levels (GLs) for fumonisin (FUM) in corn and corn by-products intended for human and animal consumption. Recent research challenges the conservatism of these GLs for ruminants, particularly for regions like the Texas High Plains, where blending permissions have been provoked, limiting the management of FUM contamination economically and maximization of corn availability for feedlots. This study evaluates whether scientific advancements since 2001 warrant a revision of these guidelines. Specifically, a 2020 study provides new data on cattle fed FUM concentrations up to 108.8 mg/kg, suggesting the current 60 mg/kg GL may be overly conservative. Using a combination of meta-analysis and the US EPA’s Benchmark Dose Software (BMDS), we assess the new scientific evidence. Our findings indicate that new data does not significantly refine the dose–response relationship for FUM in cattle, supporting the continued appropriateness of the current 60 mg/kg GL.