Hypoglycin A in pastures: a risk for dairy animals and milk quality

Hypoglycin A is a plant toxin found in parts of various plants, reported by the Food Chain Risk Assessment Center. Citing data from scientific studies, experts draw attention to adverse effects following the consumption of this toxin in humans and certain grazing animals. New research has detected traces of hypoglycin A in milk from cows that consumed seeds from the Norway maple tree (Acer pseudoplatanus). More data is needed to assess the real risk to both animals and humans. Origin and toxicity Hypoglycin A is found in the unripe fruits of the akee (Blighia sapida) and lychee (Litchi chinensis), as well as in the seeds of various maple species (family Sapindaceae). Its ingestion by humans can lead to severe intoxications, including death. Cases have been documented in the Caribbean and India related to the consumption of lychee fruits. In Europe, the spread of maple seeds coincides with the autumn season—a period when grazing animals can ingest the toxin through grazing. Cases ...