Determination of deoxynivalenol (DON) and its derivatives: Current status of analytical methods

Deoxynivalenol (DON), a major trichothecenes mycotoxin that is mainly produced by Fusarium graminearum, is becoming a big threat to both public health and agro-economy worldwide. It can induce acute and chronic toxic effects on both human and animals through contaminated foods and feeds. Therefore, surveillance and control of DON and its derivatives in foods and feeds are of great importance for producers, regulatory authorities and researchers to protect consumer health and to reduce economic losses. In this review, currently available analytical methods for DON and its derivatives, both qualitatively and quantitatively, were presented, focusing on the basic principle as well as advantages and limitations of each method. Highlights of new emerging technologies and their potential applications were also discussed. Information provided in this review would benefit researchers in their further studies on metabolic pathway and toxicological analysis of DON and its derivatives.