Physiological and Oxidative Responses to a Multi-Component Mycotoxin Detoxifier in Fattening Calves Under Natural Multi-Mycotoxin Exposure

Mycotoxin contamination of cattle feed commonly results in chronic, subclinical exposure with adverse effects on liver function and oxidative status. This controlled field trial evaluated a multi-component mycotoxin detoxifier in fattening mixed Limousin calves fed naturally contaminated diets under commercial production conditions. Twenty-four clinically healthy calves were randomly allocated to a control group or to a treatment group receiving a detoxifying additive containing adsorbent clays, phytogenic extracts (silymarin and curcumin) and yeast-derived components for 60 days. Feed, blood, fecal and liver samples were analyzed to assess biochemical, oxidative and histopathological re-sponses throughout the experimental period. The diet contained aflatoxin B1, fumonisins and zearalenone at concentrations exceeding guidance limits, indicating chronic mul-ti-mycotoxin exposure. No clinical signs of overt mycotoxicosis were observed. All bio-chemical parameters remained within physiological ranges; however, γ-glutamyl trans-ferase activity and protein carbonyl levels were significantly lower in treated calves com-pared with controls (p < 0.05). Other oxidative stress markers did not differ between groups, and histopathology revealed only mild, non-specific liver changes. In conclusion, supplementation with the tested mycotoxin detoxifier was safe and associated with im-proved hepatic enzyme regulation and reduced protein oxidative damage under field conditions.