The Effects of Aflatoxin-Contaminated Corn on Brood Sows and their Litters from Farrow to Finish

Aflatoxins are a closely related group of secondary metabolites produced by the fungi Aspergillus flavus and Aspergillus parasiticus (Diener and Davis, 1969). The invasion of feed grains such as corn before, during, and after harvest by these fungi, coupled with poor drying conditions, insect damage and improper storage, promotes aflatoxin production. Aflatoxin contamination of corn has had a serious economic impact upon both the corn and swine producer in the southern and mid-west United States (Nichols, 1983). The greatest economic loss for the swine producer has been due to the adverse affects that the aflatoxins have on growth and feed efficiency, as well as, poor body condition and death (Smith et al., 1976).