DON Contamination and Piglet Health

When piglets get contaminated by deoxynivalenol (Don), their health and performance are compromised. When present in high levels, pigs can also show decreased feed intake, digestive disorders, and vomiting - leading to a decrease in the average daily gain (ADG).

After being born, piglets don't have their intestinal tract, immune system, and microbiota completely matured and developed, making them more susceptible when challenged by a mycotoxin.

The pigs' immune system can be divided into innate or adaptive, and both can be distressed by Don. Studies have shown that Don, even at low levels, contributes to the increase in the pathogens' susceptibility and can be a considerable factor predisponent to swine respiratory disease.