Determination of Zearalenone in Corn and Wheat Consumed by Animals, in the Territory of Albania by Liquid Chromatography-Tandem Mass Spectrometry Method

Mycotoxins are secondary metabolites produced by filamentous fungi that colonize food and feed matrices. Cereal grains and derived products represent optimal substrates for fungal growth and subsequent mycotoxin production. Among these toxins, zearalenone, a non-steroidal estrogenic compound synthesized primarily by Fusarium species, is of particular concern due to its endocrine-disrupting effects in animals. Structurally analogous to endogenous estrogens, zearalenone exhibits anabolic properties, interfering with the reproductive endocrine axis. Elevated concentrations of zearalenone and its metabolites have been associated with altered hormonal activity, leading to reproductive disorders such as hypoestrogenism and reduced fertility.

Given the absence of data regarding zearalenone contamination in corn and wheat used as feed in Albanian farms, this study aimed to quantify its presence using a validated liquid chromatography-tandem mass spectrometry method. Sample preparation involved a modified QuEChERS protocol combined with acidified aqueous extraction (0.1 N HCl). Method performance parameters included recovery rates ranging from 94% to 120%, with a limit of detection of 0.01 mg/kg and a limit of quantification of 0.02 mg/kg.

A total of 51 samples (corn and wheat) were collected from Albanian farms over a 12-month period (October 2023–October 2024). All samples were found to be compliant with the European Commission’s recommended maximum levels of 2 mg/kg for cereals and 3 mg/kg for corn. However, zearalenone was detected in three samples: two wheat samples exhibited concentrations ranging from 0.03 to 0.06 mg/kg, and one corn sample contained 0.71 mg/kg.

The results demonstrate the method’s suitability for accurate zearalenone quantification in feed. The low contamination levels observed suggest appropriate storage conditions in the surveyed farms. Nonetheless, continued monitoring and broader studies are warranted to further elucidate the prevalence and potential risk of zearalenone contamination in animalfeed across the region.

Cite this article as: Teqja, S., Mavromati, J., & Marku, E. (2026). Determination of zearalenone in corn and wheat consumed by animals, in the territory of Albania by liquid chromatography-tandem mass spectrometry method. Acta Veterinaria Eurasia, 52, 0109, doi:10.5152/actavet.2026.25109.