Review of current and future analytical methods for the determination of mycotoxins∗

Chemical methods of analysis for the extraction, clean-up and determination of aflatoxins from animal feedingstuffs and foods are described. The advantages and disadvantages of thin layer chromatography (t.l.c.) and high pressure liquid chromatography (h.p.l.c.) are discussed along with newer techniques such as immunoassay. Methods for other mycotoxins such as ochratoxin, patulin, and the trichothecenes are also included. Problems encountered during collaborative testing of these methods limit the reproducibility that can be achieved.