Opinion Piece: Tools for Particle-Size-Based Homogeneity Assessments in Mycotoxin Analysis

TL;DR

This opinion piece discusses methods to assess sample homogeneity in mycotoxin analysis based on particle size.

Contribution

The paper reviews and evaluates current particle size analysis techniques for homogeneity assessment in mycotoxin testing.

Findings

No standardized methodology exists for particle-size-based homogeneity assessment in mycotoxin analysis.

Techniques like sieving, microscopy, and laser diffraction are discussed for their practical use in homogeneity evaluation.

Research on particle size tools for homogeneity remains limited and requires further development.

Abstract

Due to the heterogeneous nature of fungal and mycotoxin contamination in foods, it is essential to assess sample homogeneity to ensure that test portions are representative of the entire sample. In mycotoxin analysis, sample homogeneity can be characterized either by the distribution of the target mycotoxin or, more practically, by sample particle size and size distribution. At present, no standardized methodology has been established for assessing sample homogeneity in mycotoxin testing. Moreover, research dedicated to particle-size-based homogeneity assessment, particularly employing particle size analysis tools, remains limited. Therefore, it is worthwhile to discuss available techniques for particle size analysis. This opinion piece presents our perspective on existing techniques, namely sieving, microscopy, laser diffraction, and flow imaging microscopy, while highlighting the current challenges and outlining prospective directions for advancing homogeneity evaluation in mycotoxin analysis.

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