Up-to-date Methods of Analysis of Foodstuffs and Feed for Zearalenone

This manual presents methodologies for the detection and quantification of zearalenone, a mycotoxin produced primarily by Fusarium species affecting cereal crops. The document outlines the specific risks zearalenone poses to animal health, tracing its estrogenic and teratogenic effects, particularly in swine, and provides an overview of contamination patterns within the grain supply chain. Readers will find detailed descriptions of the chemical properties of zearalenone, including its solubility, fluorescence characteristics, and spectral data, which underpin its reliable identification in laboratory settings. Emphasis is placed on precise extraction, purification, and analytical protocols—such as thin-layer chromatography, UV spectrophotometry, and column chromatography—designed to maximize both sensitivity and accuracy. The manual also lists all required equipment, reagents, and procedural steps, supporting professionals seeking to ensure food safety and regulatory compliance through up-to-date and validated laboratory techniques.