Which of the following is an inorganic binder used for mycotoxin control?

• A. Yeast cell wall extract
• B. Activated charcoal
• C. Soybean meal
• D. Bentonite

Answer: (D)

Binding mycotoxins in the gut is often achieved with inorganic binders that trap toxins on their surface without compromising nutrient supply. Bentonite, a clay mineral with a layered silicate structure, has a high surface area and cation-exchange capacity that allow it to adsorb mycotoxins effectively. This inorganic composition makes it stable across the varying pH and enzymes of the digestive tract and less likely to interfere with nutrients, which is a common concern with some other binders. In practice, bentonite can help reduce absorption of aflatoxins and other toxins, helping to protect animal performance.

Yeast cell wall extract is organic and works through carbohydrates and proteins in the cell wall; it can bind some toxins but isn’t inorganic. Activated charcoal is also an adsorbent, but its strong, non-specific binding can strip away nutrients and medications, which limits its use as a routine feed additive. Soybean meal is simply a protein feed ingredient, not a binder at all.