Global Mycotoxin Testing Market Size, Share, Statistics Analysis Report By Type (Aflatoxins, Ochratoxins, Fumonisins, Deoxynivalenol, Trichothecenes, Zearalenone, Others), By Sample (Food and beverages, Feed, Pharmaceuticals, Others), By Technology (Chromatography- and Spectroscopy-Based, Gas Chromatography, Liquid Chromatography, Coupled Chromatography, Tandem Spectrometry, Others), By End-user (Research Lab, Research Institutes, Food Testing Industries, Others) , By Region and Companies - Industry Segment Outlook, Market Assessment, Competition Scenario, Trends, and Forecast 2024-2033

Report Overview

The Global Mycotoxin Testing Market size is expected to be worth around USD 2.6 Bn by 2033, from USD 1.3 Bn in 2023, growing at a CAGR of 7.3% during the forecast period from 2024 to 2033.

The Global Mycotoxin Testing Market has emerged as a critical segment within the food safety industry, driven by increasing awareness of foodborne contaminants and their adverse effects on human and animal health. Mycotoxins, toxic compounds produced by fungi, are a major concern in agricultural commodities such as grains, nuts, spices, dairy, and animal feed. Regulatory bodies worldwide have implemented stringent guidelines to monitor and control mycotoxin levels, creating a robust demand for reliable testing solutions.

The industrial landscape of mycotoxin testing is characterized by a diverse range of technologies, including immunoassays, chromatography-based methods, and advanced spectrometry techniques. Rapid testing kits and automated solutions are increasingly gaining traction as they offer high throughput and quick results, essential for large-scale operations in food processing, agriculture, and feed industries. Furthermore, the integration of digital technologies, such as IoT-enabled sensors and blockchain for traceability, is redefining operational efficiency and compliance in mycotoxin testing.

Driving factors for the market include the rising incidences of mycotoxin contamination due to climate change and improper storage practices, which exacerbate fungal growth. According to the Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO), nearly 25% of the world’s food crops are affected by mycotoxins annually, resulting in significant economic losses and health risks.

Growing consumer demand for safe and high-quality food products is compelling manufacturers to adopt rigorous testing protocols. Additionally, the livestock sector’s emphasis on ensuring feed safety to prevent mycotoxin-related illnesses in animals is contributing to the market’s expansion.

Prominent trends shaping the market include a shift toward multi-mycotoxin testing solutions capable of detecting multiple toxins in a single assay. This trend is particularly significant as agricultural commodities are often contaminated with more than one type of mycotoxin. Moreover, increased adoption of portable and on-site testing devices is enhancing the market’s accessibility for small-scale producers and exporters. Innovations in analytical methods, such as high-resolution mass spectrometry, are further propelling the precision and reliability of test results.

The future growth of the mycotoxin testing market is poised to accelerate, with the Asia-Pacific region emerging as a lucrative market owing to its vast agricultural base and rising regulatory awareness. Europe and North America continue to dominate due to established regulatory frameworks and high food safety standards. Industry players are also exploring opportunities in emerging economies where infrastructure for food safety is being developed.

Statistically, foodborne mycotoxin-related losses amount to billions annually. For example, aflatoxin contamination alone has been linked to over USD 5 billion in losses in sub-Saharan Africa. As global food production scales up to meet demand, mycotoxin testing will remain indispensable for ensuring food safety and compliance.

For instance, aflatoxin contamination in nuts and cereals has led to substantial trade rejections, highlighting the economic and health imperatives driving this market. As global trade intensifies and consumer awareness escalates, the mycotoxin testing market is projected to witness sustained growth, offering significant opportunities for innovation and market penetration.

Key Takeaways

• Mycotoxin Testing Market size is expected to be worth around USD 2.6 Bn by 2033, from USD 1.3 Bn in 2023, growing at a CAGR of 7.3%.
• Aflatoxins held a dominant market position, capturing more than a 39.2% share of the mycotoxin testing market.
• Food & Beverages held a dominant market position, capturing more than a 48.2% share of the mycotoxin testing market.
• Chromatography- & Spectroscopy-Based technologies held a dominant market position, capturing more than a 28.5% share.
• Research Labs held a dominant market position, capturing more than a 35.1% share of the mycotoxin testing market.
• Asia Pacific (APAC) emerges as the dominant player, holding a significant 37.4% share of the global market, valued at USD 0.4 billion.

By Type

In 2023, Aflatoxins held a dominant market position, capturing more than a 39.2% share of the mycotoxin testing market. Aflatoxins are highly toxic and carcinogenic compounds primarily found in crops like corn, peanuts, and cottonseed. Their prevalence in food and feed products, along with increasing concerns about food safety, has driven the demand for testing. The regulatory landscape, particularly in regions like the U.S. and Europe, has also contributed to the growth in aflatoxin testing, with stringent limits on allowable contamination levels.

Ochratoxins followed closely, accounting for a significant portion of the market share in 2023. Known for their potential to cause kidney damage and pose a cancer risk, ochratoxins are commonly found in cereals, coffee, dried fruits, and wine. The rise in consumer awareness about food safety and the increasing number of food recalls related to ochratoxin contamination have fueled the demand for testing solutions in this category. The global market for ochratoxins is expected to continue its steady growth through 2024, as food safety standards become more stringent.

The market for Fumonisins, which are primarily present in maize, held a notable share in 2023, as concerns around their health risks to both humans and animals gained attention. Fumonisins are linked to esophageal cancer and other diseases, which has led to an uptick in testing, particularly in regions where corn is a staple food. The awareness of fumonisin contamination, especially in developing countries, will likely see the market segment grow in 2024.

Deoxynivalenol (DON), also known as vomitoxin, is another significant segment in the mycotoxin testing market. This mycotoxin primarily affects wheat, barley, and other cereal crops, with DON contamination being a major concern for both human and animal health. In 2023, the market for DON testing expanded, driven by increased awareness of its potential effects on the immune system and gastrointestinal health. This trend is expected to continue in 2024, especially as regulatory agencies push for stricter control measures and farmers seek to avoid crop contamination.

The Trichothecenes segment also saw steady growth in 2023, capturing a smaller but growing share of the mycotoxin testing market. These toxins, which are produced by several fungi species, can cause a range of health issues in humans and animals. Trichothecenes are commonly found in wheat, barley, and other grains, and testing demand is expected to rise, driven by food safety regulations and a growing focus on preventing outbreaks of contaminated food products.

Zearalenone, a mycotoxin primarily found in corn and other cereals, accounted for a smaller portion of the market in 2023 but is projected to see faster growth in 2024. Zearalenone can disrupt hormonal systems, particularly in livestock, leading to concerns in the agricultural and food industries. As global livestock production intensifies and food safety concerns rise, the demand for zearalenone testing is likely to grow in the coming years.

By Sample

In 2023, Food & Beverages held a dominant market position, capturing more than a 48.2% share of the mycotoxin testing market. The increasing demand for food safety, combined with rising concerns about the potential health risks posed by mycotoxins, has significantly driven the growth of this segment.

Food products like grains, nuts, spices, and beverages such as coffee and wine are commonly contaminated with mycotoxins like aflatoxins and ochratoxins, prompting manufacturers to adopt regular testing. With regulatory bodies worldwide enforcing strict guidelines for permissible contamination levels, the need for consistent and reliable mycotoxin testing in food and beverages continues to rise.

Feed accounted for the second-largest share in the mycotoxin testing market in 2023. Animal feed, which includes crops like corn and barley, often faces contamination by mycotoxins that can affect livestock health and, consequently, food safety for consumers. As the livestock industry grows, the demand for ensuring that animal feed is free of harmful mycotoxins has become more critical. Mycotoxin testing in feed is not just a precautionary measure, but also a regulatory requirement in many regions to ensure animal welfare and prevent the spread of toxins through the food chain.

The Pharmaceuticals segment, while smaller compared to food and feed, is also an important part of the mycotoxin testing market. In 2023, pharmaceutical companies increasingly relied on testing for mycotoxins in raw materials, as well as in finished products, to ensure safety and compliance. Mycotoxins, even in trace amounts, can pose serious risks when incorporated into medicines, particularly those used for immunosuppressive or cancer treatments. As regulations become more stringent, the demand for reliable testing in the pharmaceutical industry is expected to grow in the coming years.

By Technology

In 2023, Chromatography- & Spectroscopy-Based technologies held a dominant market position, capturing more than a 28.5% share of the mycotoxin testing market. This segment includes a wide range of analytical techniques that offer high sensitivity and precision in detecting mycotoxins across various samples. The combination of chromatography and spectroscopy allows for the separation and identification of multiple mycotoxins in a single analysis, making it a preferred choice in food safety testing. The growing demand for accurate, reliable, and quick mycotoxin detection in food, beverages, and animal feed has been a significant driver of this technology’s dominance.

Among chromatography-based methods, Gas Chromatography (GC) has been widely used for the detection of volatile mycotoxins, particularly in food and beverage products. In 2023, GC maintained a strong presence, contributing significantly to the overall market due to its ability to provide precise results for certain mycotoxin types like aflatoxins and fumonisins. As regulatory requirements tighten globally, the demand for gas chromatography to meet these standards is expected to rise further, particularly in markets such as Europe and North America.

On the other hand, Liquid Chromatography (LC) saw an increase in demand in 2023, particularly due to its versatility and effectiveness in analyzing non-volatile mycotoxins. With its ability to handle complex matrices such as animal feed and pharmaceutical samples, LC technology has continued to grow in relevance. In 2024, this segment is projected to experience further growth as more industries adopt LC-based methods for multi-mycotoxin analysis, driven by the increasing need for comprehensive food safety testing.

Coupled Chromatography, which combines multiple chromatographic techniques to improve detection and accuracy, also gained traction in 2023. The coupling of gas and liquid chromatography allows for enhanced separation capabilities, particularly useful for complex sample matrices. This method is anticipated to expand as the demand for more reliable and detailed analysis increases, especially in food and agricultural sectors.

Tandem Spectrometry, which involves combining mass spectrometry with chromatography, is becoming increasingly popular for its sensitivity and ability to detect trace levels of mycotoxins. This technology is especially useful in industries where even minute amounts of contamination could pose significant health risks, such as pharmaceuticals and high-value food products. In 2023, tandem spectrometry began to carve out a growing niche, and its adoption is expected to rise in the coming years as regulatory pressures continue to escalate.

By End-user

In 2023, Research Labs held a dominant market position, capturing more than a 35.1% share of the mycotoxin testing market. Research labs play a crucial role in advancing testing methodologies, developing new technologies, and performing in-depth studies on the impacts of mycotoxins on human health, animal health, and the environment. These labs are often at the forefront of mycotoxin analysis, working to improve detection methods, increase the sensitivity of tests, and meet growing regulatory requirements. The demand for precise and reliable results in academic and scientific research has led to continued investment in mycotoxin testing technologies, helping fuel the growth of this segment.

Research Institutes also accounted for a significant portion of the market in 2023. These institutions, focused on studying food safety, agriculture, and environmental health, often partner with governmental bodies and international organizations to monitor mycotoxin contamination levels in various regions. The need for accurate, large-scale monitoring of food and feed safety across multiple markets has increased the demand for advanced testing technologies. Institutes focused on agricultural science have also contributed to understanding how mycotoxins affect crop yields, driving investments in more sophisticated testing tools.

The Food Testing Industry segment has grown steadily over the years as global food safety concerns become more pronounced. In 2023, this sector saw an uptick in demand due to the increasing regulation of food safety standards across countries. Food testing industries routinely test raw ingredients, processed foods, and finished products for mycotoxin contamination, ensuring consumer health and compliance with industry standards. With new outbreaks of foodborne illnesses linked to mycotoxins and consumer concerns over food quality, testing in the food industry has become more rigorous, contributing to the overall market expansion.

Key Market Segments

By Type

• Aflatoxins
• Ochratoxins
• Fumonisins
• Deoxynivalenol
• Trichothecenes
• Zearalenone
• Others

By Sample

• Food & beverages
• Feed
• Pharmaceuticals
• Others

By Technology

• Chromatography- & Spectroscopy-Based
• Gas Chromatography
• Liquid Chromatography
• Coupled Chromatography
• Tandem Spectrometry
• Others

By End-user

• Research Lab
• Research Institutes
• Food Testing Industries
• Others

Drivers

Increasing Government Regulations and Food Safety Standards

For instance, the European Commission has set strict limits on the levels of aflatoxins in food products, with maximum allowable levels of 4 µg/kg in nuts and dried fruits, and 0.02 µg/kg in infant foods. Similarly, for ochratoxin A, the European Union has established permissible limits for cereals and cereal-based products at 3 µg/kg, emphasizing the importance of constant testing to ensure food safety.

In the United States, the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) also enforces regulations related to mycotoxins, particularly in products like grains, nuts, and peanut butter. The FDA’s action levels for aflatoxins in various commodities such as peanuts and corn vary between 20 to 100 ppb (parts per billion), depending on the product.

For example, the FDA limits the presence of aflatoxins in peanut butter to 20 ppb, underscoring the critical role of mycotoxin testing in the food industry. These strict regulations from governing bodies are pushing companies and manufacturers to incorporate advanced testing methods, such as chromatography and spectroscopy, to comply with the standards.

Additionally, the Codex Alimentarius Commission, a joint initiative of the WHO and FAO, has published international guidelines for mycotoxin contamination in food. Codex standards set limits for various mycotoxins in food, with thresholds such as 5 µg/kg for aflatoxins in cereals and 50 µg/kg for fumonisins in corn. These regulations have created a significant demand for mycotoxin testing across various industries to ensure compliance with both regional and international standards.

Restraints

High Cost of Mycotoxin Testing

gas chromatography-mass spectrometry (GC-MS), one of the most common methods for detecting mycotoxins, can cost between $50,000 to $150,000 depending on the model and features These expenses extend beyond just the equipment—there are also costs related to running and maintaining the machines, as well as expenses for highly trained personnel to operate them effectively. Many food testing labs and smaller manufacturers find these costs prohibitive, which can limit the widespread adoption of comprehensive mycotoxin testing.

Additionally, multiple sample preparation steps are often required before testing, adding both time and cost to the process. For example, some methods require expensive chemicals and solvents to extract mycotoxins from samples, further driving up the overall cost per test. In large-scale production settings, this can lead to significant expenses, making regular mycotoxin testing less economically feasible for smaller or mid-sized food and feed manufacturers.

Another issue is the operational expenses, including costs for sample collection, storage, and transportation. Transporting samples to certified testing laboratories can add significant logistical costs, especially when dealing with perishable items. For example, shipping samples to laboratories for testing can range from $50 to $200 depending on distance, type of test, and sample condition.

While regulatory frameworks in countries like the European Union and United States enforce strict testing standards, the associated costs often force smaller companies to rely on more affordable, less accurate testing methods or skip testing altogether, potentially compromising food safety. According to the US Food and Drug Administration (FDA), the cost of mycotoxin contamination can be quite high for the food industry, with fines, recalls, and reputation damage adding financial strain to companies that fail to meet safety standards

Opportunity

Growing Demand for Mycotoxin Testing in Emerging Markets

For instance, in India, one of the largest producers of agricultural products, studies have found that about 25% of food crops are contaminated with aflatoxins, with some states reporting levels that exceed acceptable limits set by international standards. With increasing concerns about the health implications of such contamination, the demand for reliable mycotoxin testing solutions in the country has been growing. This growth is further supported by the Indian government’s National Food Safety Standards, which aim to regulate the presence of mycotoxins in food items like nuts, grains, and cereals.

In Africa, the situation is equally critical. According to the Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO), up to 40% of crops in some parts of Africa are contaminated with aflatoxins, which can cause liver damage, cancer, and other health issues. The FAO has launched several initiatives aimed at improving food safety standards and promoting mycotoxin testing in agriculture.

Governments are increasingly collaborating with global organizations to enhance local testing capacities and monitor food safety across the region. The African Union has also included food safety and the control of mycotoxins as part of its strategy for improving agricultural productivity and ensuring food security for the continent.

The government’s increasing focus on ensuring food safety standards for both domestic consumption and international exports has led to higher demand for mycotoxin testing services. In 2022, Brazil’s Ministry of Agriculture set new guidelines to monitor and control aflatoxin levels in soybeans, setting a permissible limit of 20 µg/kg for aflatoxin B1 in export-grade soybeans.

Trends

Rising Adoption of Rapid Testing Technologies for Mycotoxins

A significant trend in the mycotoxin testing market is the rising adoption of rapid testing technologies designed to offer faster, cost-effective results for detecting mycotoxins in food and feed products. These technologies, including immunoassays and portable devices, are transforming the landscape of mycotoxin detection by reducing analysis time, increasing accessibility, and lowering the cost per test. The shift towards rapid testing is driven by the growing need for quick decision-making in food safety and quality control, particularly in high-throughput industries like agriculture, food processing, and animal feed production.

For example, in the United States, the FDA (Food and Drug Administration) reports that rapid testing methods such as lateral flow devices (LFD) and enzyme-linked immunosorbent assays (ELISA) are gaining popularity due to their speed and ease of use, allowing for on-site testing without the need for sophisticated lab infrastructure. According to the FDA, more than 30% of food manufacturers in the U.S. are now using these rapid testing methods as part of their routine food safety monitoring.

The demand for faster results is particularly critical in sectors where contamination risks are higher, such as in the processing of cereals, grains, and nuts. For instance, corn, a staple crop highly susceptible to mycotoxin contamination, is grown in vast quantities across North America and Asia. In China, which is the world’s largest producer of corn, approximately 70% of the corn produced is reported to have detectable levels of aflatoxins, prompting the need for quick, on-site testing to prevent the release of contaminated goods into the market.

In addition to the food industry, animal feed producers are also embracing rapid mycotoxin testing to safeguard livestock health. As global animal feed production rises, with the global market valued at $415 billion in 2020, rapid testing is being increasingly implemented to protect both the animals and the end consumer. In the EU alone, over 60% of feed mills are adopting these testing methods to monitor for contaminants like ochratoxins and deoxynivalenol.

Furthermore, with increasing regulations around mycotoxins, governments are pushing for improved detection techniques that not only increase accuracy but also allow for quicker responses. The European Food Safety Authority (EFSA) has set new, more stringent limits on the maximum allowable levels of several mycotoxins in food and feed, underscoring the importance of these rapid testing technologies in maintaining compliance. For example, the EFSA’s acceptable limit for aflatoxins in cereals is now as low as 2 µg/kg in some products, which necessitates the need for frequent and fast testing to avoid exceeding these limits.

Regional Analysis

Asia Pacific (APAC) emerges as the dominant player, holding a significant 37.4% share of the global market, valued at USD 0.4 billion. The region’s prominence is driven by increasing regulatory standards, growing awareness about food safety, and rapid industrialization in the agricultural sector. Countries like China, India, and Japan are spearheading the regional market due to their substantial agricultural outputs and escalating export requirements.

Europe follows closely, attributed to stringent EU regulations on food and feed safety which mandate rigorous mycotoxin testing to curb exposure levels. European markets such as Germany, France, and the UK are heavily invested in advanced testing technologies, facilitating substantial growth in the region.

North America is characterized by advanced technological adoption and high consumer awareness regarding food contaminants. The U.S. and Canada are significant contributors to the regional market, driven by both governmental and private sector investments in safe food practices and high-quality agricultural products.

Latin America and the Middle East & Africa (MEA), although smaller in market size compared to other regions, are rapidly growing due to changes in regulatory frameworks and an increase in food export activities. Countries like Brazil and South Africa are experiencing heightened demand for testing services to comply with international trade standards.

Key Regions and Countries

• North America
  • US
  • Canada
• Europe
  • Germany
  • France
  • The UK
  • Spain
  • Italy
  • Rest of Europe
• Asia Pacific
  • China
  • Japan
  • South Korea
  • India
  • Australia
  • Rest of APAC
• Latin America
  • Brazil
  • Mexico
  • Rest of Latin America
• Middle East & Africa
  • South Africa
  • Saudi Arabia
  • UAE
  • Rest of MEA

Key Players Analysis

The mycotoxin testing market is highly competitive, with several key players offering a wide range of testing solutions for food, feed, and environmental samples. Notable companies include Eurofins Scientific, a global leader in laboratory services, known for its comprehensive testing capabilities in food safety and mycotoxins.

Neogen Corporation, another prominent player, provides specialized rapid testing kits and laboratory services for detecting mycotoxins in a variety of food and agricultural products. SGS Société Générale de Surveillance SA and Bureau Veritas are also major players, offering extensive testing and certification services across multiple industries, including agriculture, food safety, and environmental monitoring.

Other significant players include Charm Sciences, recognized for its innovative testing technologies for mycotoxins in food and animal feed, and Envirologix, which provides advanced immunoassay kits for on-site testing. Microbac Laboratories and Dairyland Laboratories, Inc. are important players in the North American market, providing a range of food safety testing solutions.

Additionally, Intertek Group plc, AsureQuality, and ISSPLAB continue to grow their market presence by offering mycotoxin testing services in food and agricultural sectors worldwide. Companies like dsm-firmenich, Bio-Check (UK) Ltd., and ProGnosis Biotech S.A. are also contributing to the expansion of mycotoxin testing technologies, particularly in specialized and innovative areas like biosensors and rapid test kits. These players are shaping the market with their continuous innovations, regional expansions, and a focus on enhancing food safety standards globally.

Top Key Players

• AES Laboratories Pvt. Ltd.
• ALS
• AsureQuality
• Bio-Check (UK) Ltd.
• Bureau Veritas
• Charm Sciences
• Dairyland Laboratories, Inc.
• dsm-firmenich
• ELISA Technologies, Inc.
• EMSL Analytical, Inc.
• Envirologix
• Eurofins Scientific
• IEH Laboratories & Consulting Group
• INSTITUT MERIEUX
• Intertek Group plc
• ISSPLAB
• Microbac Laboratories, Inc.
• Neogen Corporation
• OMIC USA INC.
• Premier Analytics Services
• ProGnosis Biotech S.A.
• SGS Société Générale de Surveillance SA
• Symbio Labs
• TLR International Laboratories
• Trilogy Analytical Laboratory

Recent Developments

In 2024, AES Laboratories continues to innovate, enhancing its testing protocols to address new mycotoxin risks and contributing to food safety assurance worldwide.

In 2024, Bio-Check plans to expand its market reach by introducing enhanced versions of its rapid test kits and increasing its presence in emerging markets where the need for mycotoxin testing is rising due to improved awareness and regulations around food safety.

Report Scope