Mycotoxin Testing Market - Global Industry Size, Share, Trends Opportunity, and Forecast, 2020-2030F

The Mycotoxin Testing Market was valued at USD 1.34 Billion in 2024, and is expected to reach USD 2.08 Billion by 2030, rising at a CAGR of 7.56%. Mycotoxins are highly toxic secondary metabolites produced by fungi. These contaminants pose significant health risks to humans and animals, including fatality or severe medical complications, making their presence in food products a critical issue. Mycotoxins thrive in humid environments with organic matter and suitable temperatures, with fungal growth accelerating under favorable conditions. This leads to colony formation and an elevated risk of contamination.

Despite extensive research, the underlying reasons for mycotoxin production remain elusive. However, their prevalence in food products is well-documented. Even trace amounts can compromise the chemical integrity of the host material, facilitating further fungal proliferation. The variability in mycotoxin toxicity depends on factors such as the host's metabolic activity, immunity, and environmental conditions.

For businesses in the food and related industries, mycotoxin testing is not just a regulatory requirement but a critical operational mandate. Compliance with stringent international and regional food safety standards is non-negotiable to ensure product integrity and consumer trust. Organizations must implement robust testing protocols to mitigate contamination risks, avoid regulatory penalties, and maintain market reputation.

Key Market Drivers

Increase in the Prevalence of Foodborne Disease

The escalating prevalence of foodborne diseases has emerged as a critical factor driving the increased demand for mycotoxin testing across the global food industry. Mycotoxins, toxic compounds naturally produced by molds, are known to contaminate a wide range of agricultural and food products, including grains, nuts, dried fruits, and dairy. These contaminants pose significant health risks, ranging from acute food poisoning and organ damage to severe chronic conditions. This has placed food safety under heightened scrutiny, compelling businesses to adopt rigorous testing measures.

One of the key drivers of this trend is the growing ability of medical and scientific communities to accurately diagnose foodborne illnesses and trace them back to specific contaminants, including mycotoxins. Advances in diagnostic technologies and pathogen tracking have unveiled a strong correlation between foodborne outbreaks and mycotoxin contamination, further emphasizing the need for comprehensive testing protocols. Outbreak investigations often uncover lapses in quality control, underscoring the importance of proactive measures to mitigate risks and protect consumer health. Unsafe food consumption is a critical global health issue, causing 600 million cases of foodborne diseases annually and resulting in 420,000 deaths worldwide.

Alarmingly, 30% of these fatalities occur among children under the age of five, underscoring the disproportionate vulnerability of this demographic. According to the World Health Organization (WHO), unsafe food leads to the loss of approximately 33 million years of healthy life globally each year - a figure that likely underrepresents the full scale of the impact. In recognition of this growing crisis, the World Health Assembly Resolution 73.5 (WHA73.5) has tasked WHO with the ongoing monitoring and reporting of the global burden of foodborne and zoonotic diseases. This mandate encompasses evaluations at national, regional, and international levels, enabling data-driven strategies to address the issue effectively.

Moreover, the rising incidence of mycotoxin-related illnesses has prompted regulatory bodies worldwide to tighten safety standards for food products. Agencies such as the FDA, EFSA, and Codex Alimentarius Commission have established stringent limits for permissible mycotoxin levels, mandating compliance through regular testing and reporting. Non-compliance not only risks severe penalties but also damages brand reputation, eroding consumer trust in the market.

For food producers, processors, and distributors, mycotoxin testing is no longer an optional step but an operational necessity. Beyond regulatory compliance, rigorous testing serves as a safeguard against product recalls, legal liabilities, and potential loss of market access. It also acts as a competitive differentiator, as consumers and retailers increasingly prioritize transparency and safety in the food supply chain.

In an industry where safety and quality are paramount, businesses must view mycotoxin testing as an integral component of their risk management strategy. Implementing advanced detection technologies, integrating real-time monitoring systems, and fostering partnerships with accredited laboratories are key actions that can enable companies to meet regulatory expectations while ensuring consumer confidence. As the food industry continues to evolve, the role of mycotoxin testing in maintaining product integrity and safeguarding public health cannot be overstated.

Accelerating Need for Food Safety

The increasing emphasis on food safety and quality assurance has led to a substantial rise in the demand for mycotoxin testing services and technologies. Mycotoxins, toxic metabolites produced by molds, contaminate a wide range of agricultural commodities, including grains, nuts, spices, and fruits. When consumed, these contaminants pose severe health risks to humans and animals, ranging from acute toxicity to long-term conditions such as liver cancer. This growing awareness of the health hazards associated with mycotoxin exposure has positioned testing as an essential component of modern food safety protocols.

Unsafe food contaminated with harmful bacteria, viruses, parasites, or chemical substances is responsible for over 200 diseases, including diarrheal illnesses and certain cancers. This public health issue perpetuates a cycle of disease and malnutrition, disproportionately impacting vulnerable populations such as infants, young children, the elderly, and those with weakened immune systems. The World Health Organization reports that 1 in 10 people globally fall ill each year due to contaminated food. These illnesses result in approximately 420,000 adult deaths annually, alongside 125,000 fatalities among children under five. Ensuring access to safe and healthy food is not just a health imperative but a foundational requirement for economic and societal stability.

Agricultural producers and farmers are proactively incorporating mycotoxin testing into their operations as a critical risk management strategy. By detecting mycotoxin contamination early in the supply chain, stakeholders can implement targeted measures to inhibit mold growth and mitigate contamination risks. These efforts not only safeguard the quality and safety of agricultural yields but also reduce the potential for financial losses caused by rejected shipments, recalls, and liability claims.

Consumer demand is another significant factor driving market growth. Increasingly informed about the risks associated with mycotoxins, consumers are placing greater emphasis on transparency and safety in the food products they purchase. This heightened consumer awareness has created a ripple effect, compelling food producers and suppliers to prioritize mycotoxin testing to meet stringent regulatory standards and maintain brand credibility in competitive markets.

Additionally, advancements in testing technologies have revolutionized the efficiency and accuracy of mycotoxin detection. Innovative tools, such as high-performance liquid chromatography (HPLC), mass spectrometry, and rapid lateral flow devices, enable faster and more precise analyses, allowing businesses to streamline their quality control processes. These technological advancements have further fueled the adoption of mycotoxin testing, making it a cornerstone of food safety assurance for both large-scale operations and smaller producers.

As regulatory frameworks around food safety continue to tighten globally, the role of mycotoxin testing is expanding. Companies that invest in robust testing protocols not only ensure compliance but also strengthen their market position by delivering safer and higher-quality products to consumers. The accelerating demand for mycotoxin testing underscores its critical importance in addressing food safety challenges and fostering trust across the supply chain.

Stringent Regulations Laid by The Government on Implementation of Testing

Governments and regulatory authorities worldwide have implemented stringent requirements for the mandatory testing of animal feed and food ingredients. Market approval for animal feed is contingent upon demonstrating compliance with safety and efficacy standards. These precautionary measures, designed to prevent contamination, chemical residues, and toxicity, have significantly influenced the growth trajectory of the global mycotoxin testing market.

In many countries, regulatory frameworks now dictate specific permissible levels of mycotoxins in both food and animal feed. These standards are essential to safeguarding human and animal health, as exposure to mycotoxins can lead to severe medical conditions in animals. Documented risks include alimentary toxic aleukia, hemorrhagic syndromes, liver diseases, kidney damage, neurological impairments, immune system disorders, and carcinogenic effects. Consequently, mycotoxin testing has become an indispensable component of the feed production process, ensuring that all products meet regulatory thresholds before entering the market.

The increasing prevalence of mycotoxin-related health concerns has driven the demand for advanced testing solutions. Animal feed providers are under growing pressure to deliver comprehensive proof of mycotoxin levels, necessitating detailed analysis and certification to remain competitive and compliant. Recognizing this demand, mycotoxin test providers have expanded their portfolios to include rapid and at-home testing kits. These innovations offer instant results, empowering users to independently verify feed quality without reliance on external laboratories.

This convenience significantly reduces testing turnaround times and operational costs for feed manufacturers, distributors, and small-scale producers. The adoption of rapid testing technologies is particularly advantageous in emerging markets where access to centralized testing facilities may be limited. By enabling decentralized testing, these solutions are expanding the accessibility of mycotoxin detection across the supply chain. Moreover, advancements in diagnostic accuracy and user-friendly designs have encouraged wider adoption among stakeholders, including farmers, feed processors, and quality assurance teams.

Beyond compliance, the economic implications of mycotoxin testing are profound. Effective testing protocols not only mitigate the risk of regulatory penalties but also prevent costly recalls and protect brand reputation. In an increasingly competitive marketplace, demonstrating a commitment to safety and quality is essential for customer retention and market growth. As the global regulatory landscape becomes more stringent and awareness of mycotoxin-related health risks continues to rise, the demand for mycotoxin testing is expected to accelerate further. Providers who innovate to deliver accurate, efficient, and accessible testing solutions are well-positioned to capitalize on this growing market. The intersection of regulatory enforcement, health concerns, and technological advancements will remain a driving force behind the expansion of the mycotoxin testing sector.

Rise in Global Food Trade

With the expansion of global trade and complex food supply chains, products can now be sourced from different parts of the world. This increases the potential for mycotoxin contamination as products move through various stages of production, transportation, and storage. Rigorous mycotoxin testing helps prevent contaminated products from entering the market and spreading through international supply chains. In 2024, the FAO Dairy Price Index averaged 129.6 points, reflecting a 4.7% increase (5.8 points) compared to 2023. This growth was primarily driven by a significant surge in butter prices, fueled by robust global demand and limited exportable supplies. Production constraints, exacerbated by unpredictable weather conditions, played a critical role in tightening supply chains and elevating market prices
The global food trade has experienced significant growth in recent years and is projected to continue expanding in the future. Both developed and developing nations have become increasingly involved in global food trade, acting as importers, exporters, or both. This growth is driven by rising consumer demand for a wide range of tasty and readily available food products throughout the year. The trade of processed food products is expected to outpace the trade of agricultural commodities, as it addresses the growing need for food safety and security. Concerns about food safety and quality have gained prominence due to heightened awareness of health issues associated with food contamination. Consequently, there is a greater demand for food testing services, including mycotoxin testing.

Key Market Challenges

Lack of Infrastructure to Restrict Market Expansion

Many underdeveloped or developing nations face challenges in establishing the infrastructure necessary for conducting mycotoxin testing. Limited access to advanced technology hinders these economies, leading to potential non-compliance with regulations that can significantly impact global market growth. This applies to both domestic and multinational firms, as they may refrain from investing in the required testing systems. The lack of awareness among the general population about the harmful effects of consuming mycotoxins further contributes to corporations evading such tests. Factors such as inadequate management, outdated information, and limited expertise in regional law and regulation can also impede global market expansion during the projected period.

Lack of Qualified Personnel

The global market is experiencing a substantial demand for qualified technical personnel to perform mycotoxin testing and cover related areas. However, there exists a significant disparity between the demand for certified professionals and the actual supply. This poses a challenge for market players as they face increased pressure to provide timely and updated information in compliance with regional laws and regulations.

Key Market Trends

Expansion Opportunities in Emerging Markets

Increasing food trade across borders in emerging markets presents opportunities for market growth. The rising prevalence of food-borne illnesses and inadequate sanitation and processing conditions in certain countries, like Indonesia, underscores the necessity for mycotoxin testing of food. China, as a prominent food-importing and -exporting nation, plays a pivotal role in the mycotoxin testing market. The implementation of regulations in emerging economies engaged in food trade, empowering authorities to prohibit the import and supply of contaminated food, enforce food recalls, and mandate nutrition labeling, is anticipated to drive the demand for testing services in these regions.

The escalating occurrences of mycotoxicosis outbreaks in the emerging economies of Asia and Africa present significant growth prospects for mycotoxin testing in these areas. Developing countries are consistently exposed to high levels of aflatoxins, fumonisins, and trichothecenes, which are known to cause carcinogenicity, immunotoxicity, and growth retardation in animals.

Multiple studies conducted in Nigeria have reported toxin levels far exceeding the limits set by international regulatory agencies in food and agricultural products. There have been widespread reports of fatal outbreaks of toxicities, particularly due to aflatoxins, in Nigeria. Addressing the food safety and international trade concerns associated with mycotoxin contamination in Nigerian consumer goods and agricultural products is of utmost urgency. Developing countries like Nigeria face significant challenges due to a lack of organized scientific information and data on the magnitude of the problem.

Growing Consumer Awareness

The global mycotoxin testing market is expected to experience significant growth due to the increasing number of consumers who are cognizant of the impact of food ingredients on their health. This awareness is facilitated by the availability of information on the internet and the proactive efforts of regional health departments in educating the public about the risks associated with consuming harmful compounds. As consumer awareness continues to grow, corporations are compelled to provide accurate information to attract new customers and preserve brand value.

Segmental Insights

Type Insights

Based on Type, the market is divided into Aflatoxin, Deoxynivalenol, Ochratoxins, Fumonisins, and Others. Aflatoxins dominated the Global Mycotoxin Testing Market due to several factors that highlight their significance in food safety and regulatory compliance. Aflatoxins are highly toxic secondary metabolites produced by certain fungi, primarily Aspergillus species, which commonly contaminate food and feed crops such as maize, peanuts, and tree nuts.

These toxins pose severe health risks to humans and animals, including carcinogenic, mutagenic, and immunosuppressive effects, making their detection and regulation paramount in ensuring public health and food safety. One of the key reasons for the dominance of aflatoxins in the mycotoxin testing market is their widespread occurrence and persistence in agricultural commodities across the globe. Aflatoxin contamination is prevalent in regions with warm and humid climates, where conditions favor fungal growth and toxin production. As a result, aflatoxin contamination poses a significant challenge to food producers, processors, and regulatory authorities worldwide, necessitating robust testing protocols and monitoring programs to mitigate risks to human and animal health.

Aflatoxins have garnered considerable attention from regulatory agencies and international organizations due to their potent toxicity and adverse health effects. Regulatory bodies such as the Food and Drug Administration (FDA), European Food Safety Authority (EFSA), and World Health Organization (WHO) have established strict regulatory limits and guidelines for aflatoxin levels in food and feed products, mandating routine testing and compliance measures by food manufacturers, importers, and exporters.

Technology Insights

Based on technological advancements, the global market is categorized into HPLC-based, LC-MS/MS-based, Immunoassay-based, Others segments. The high-performance liquid chromatography (HPLC) segment is anticipated to emerge as the fastest-growing segment within the global market, driven by its exceptional capability to precisely quantify plasma levels of drugs and their metabolites. In the realm of medical diagnostics and pharmaceutical research, the accuracy of diagnosis and treatment efficacy hinges upon the precise determination of concentrations of biogenic substances within biological samples. Herein lies the strength of HPLC, which enables healthcare professionals and researchers to obtain highly accurate and reliable measurements of analytes in complex sample matrices.

The adoption of liquid chromatography coupled with tandem mass spectrometry (LC-MS/MS) has witnessed remarkable growth, emerging as one of the most potent analytical techniques in the field. LC-MS/MS seamlessly integrates the capabilities of liquid chromatography with the sensitivity and selectivity of triple quadrupole mass spectrometry, thereby offering unparalleled advantages in terms of detection, quantification, and identification of analytes. This hybrid approach empowers analysts to achieve exceptional levels of sensitivity and specificity, even in the presence of interfering compounds or complex sample matrices.

One of the key drivers behind the proliferation of LC-MS/MS in clinical and research settings is its ability to address the evolving demands for comprehensive and reliable analytical solutions. LC-MS/MS enables simultaneous quantification of multiple analytes within a single sample, facilitating efficient and cost-effective analysis while maximizing throughput and productivity. Although the initial investment and operational costs associated with LC-MS/MS instrumentation may be relatively high, the benefits it offers in terms of sensitivity, specificity, and efficiency far outweigh the associated expenses.

Regional Insights

Based on region, the mycotoxin testing market is segmented into North America, Europe, Asia Pacific, South America, and MEA. Europe (EU) is expected to lead the global mycotoxin testing market due to the implementation of stringent regulations pertaining to animal feed. The European Feed and Food Ingredient Safety Certification plays a crucial role in regulating the animal feed market within the region. Growth in Asia-Pacific is anticipated to be driven by the increasing consumer awareness regarding food ingredients and the growing emphasis of regional governments on conducting comprehensive tests before introducing products to the market.

The presence of rigorous food safety regulations established by the US Food and Drugs Administration department is likely to propel revenue growth in North America to unprecedented levels. One of the key drivers for the current growth is the stringent regulations in countries such as Germany, the US, France, and the UK. The UK exhibits the slowest growth rate in the European region. However, the Asia Pacific region is expected to experience a significant boost in the mycotoxin testing market in the coming years due to rapid urbanization. The market is currently constrained by the lack of food control systems, bacterial detection devices, and the casual attitude of developing economies towards high R&D costs. Nevertheless, these factors present opportunities for further development and growth in the mycotoxin market.

Key Market Players

• SGS Société Générale de Surveillance SA.
• Bureau Veritas
• Eurofins Scientific
• Intertek Group plc
• Mérieux NutriSciences Corporation
• ALS Limited
• Neogen Corporation
• AsureQuality Limited.
• Charm Sciences, Inc.
• Premier Analytical Services

Report Scope:

In this report, the Global Mycotoxin Testing Market has been segmented into the following categories, in addition to the industry trends which have also been detailed below:

Mycotoxin Testing Market, By Type:

• Aflatoxin
• Deoxynivalenol
• Ochratoxins
• Fumonisins
• Others

Mycotoxin Testing Market, By Technology:

• HPLC-based
• LC-MS/MS-based
• Immunoassay-based
• Others

Mycotoxin Testing Market, By Sample:

• Food
• Feed

Mycotoxin Testing Market, By End User:

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

Mycotoxin Testing Market, By Region:

• North America
• United States
• Canada
• Mexico
• Europe
• France
• United Kingdom
• Italy
• Germany
• Spain
• Asia-Pacific
• China
• India
• Japan
• Australia
• South Korea
• South America
• Brazil
• Argentina
• Colombia
• Middle East & Africa
• South Africa
• Saudi Arabia
• UAE

Competitive Landscape

Company Profiles: Detailed analysis of the major companies present in the Global Mycotoxin Testing Market.

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Company Information

• Detailed analysis and profiling of additional market players (up to five).

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