Optimization of modified bentonite mycotoxin binders for enhanced adsorption efficiency under simulated gastric and intestinal conditions.

Mycotoxins-harmful compounds produced by various fungi, particularly in agricultural products-pose serious threats to food safety and to the health of both humans and livestock. These toxins can cause liver and kidney damage and may even be carcinogenic. Therefore, it is essential to mitigate their harmful effects through practical and cost-effective methods. In this study, we investigated the effectiveness of a mycotoxin binder composed of organic and inorganic materials with varying formulations for the removal of aflatoxins, ochratoxin, zearalenone, and deoxynivalenol under simulated gastric and intestinal conditions. Among the tested formulations, the mixture containing bentonite, humic acid, and beta-glucan-mannan in a 70:10:20 ratio showed the highest overall adsorption efficiency. This optimized formulation resulted in a statistically significant improvement in toxin removal (P < 0.05), achieving removal rates of 98.07% for aflatoxin B, 93.80% for aflatoxin B, 90.99% for aflatoxin G, 93.56% for aflatoxin G, 81.64% for ochratoxin, 73.45% for zearalenone, and 98.98% for deoxynivalenol. These findings offer a promising strategy for improving agricultural product safety and enhancing food supply chain integrity.