Enniatins and Beauvericin as Emerging Mycotoxins in the Context of Climate Change in Europe

Emerging mycotoxins are unregulated natural toxins, often detected in small-grain cereal crops. They are produced by various Fusarium molds and have been reported in surveys conducted across Europe. Many Fusarium species that produce mycotoxins thrive and exhibit greater pathogenicity under relatively warm and humid conditions. Environmental conditions that promote fungal growth often also enhance mycotoxin accumulation. Various abiotic factors influence both Fusarium growth and mycotoxin biosynthesis, and several studies have associated these environmental conditions with the occurrence of enniatins (ENNs) and beauvericin (BEA) in cereal crops. Ongoing climate change in Europe may further support the spread and development of Fusarium species, potentially increasing the production of emerging mycotoxins. Following recent updates on the occurrence of these mycotoxins, this review evaluates the scientific literature concerning Fusarium species responsible for ENNs and BEA production.