A Novel Composite Additive Based on Modified Eggshell Powder for the Adsorption and Toxicity Mitigation of Deoxynivalenol

Deoxynivalenol (DON), a prevalent mycotoxin in crops, poses significant risks to public health. Single-component DON adsorbents exhibit poor polar affinity and limited binding sites. This study aims to develop a novel composite adsorbent capable of adsorption and toxicity mitigation against DON. Eggshell-based composite adsorbents (EC-1, EC-2, and EC-3) were developed by blending 500-CSAE (a novel adsorbent based on eggshell powder modification) with coconut shell biochar, yeast cell walls, and honeysuckle extract at ratios of 3:1:1:2, 2:2:1:2, and 1:3:1:2, respectively. The preferred EC-1 achieved adsorption of 99.7% and 99.5% for DON in simulated gastric and intestinal environments, respectively. EC-1 at 50, 100, and 200 μg/mL showed no cytotoxicity and counteracted DON-induced viability loss of IPEC-J2 cells. Dietary supplement with 0.2% EC-1 attenuated DON-compromised growth performance, liver function, immune function, antioxidant capacity, and intestinal morphology of piglets. In conclusion, EC-1 was developed and validated as a food additive for mitigating DON hazards.