Ergot alkaloids in cereal-based systems

Ergot alkaloids (EAs) are a class of mycotoxins synthesised by various fungi, mainly by Claviceps purpurea and other members of the genus Claviceps. EAs are found in many economically important cereals, causing production losses in agriculture around the world. They are mycotoxins with well-documented toxicological effects on humans and animals, including vasoconstriction, neurotoxicity, hormonal disorders and impairment of reproductive function. Their presence in cereal crops, especially in rye, wheat and barley, poses a persistent risk to food and feed safety. Despite advances in analytical detection methods, the heterogeneous distribution of these alkaloids and the variability of their toxic profiles make effective risk assessment difficult. Chronic dietary exposure, even at subclinical levels, can lead to adverse health effects, emphasising the importance of continuous monitoring. Therefore, the establishment and enforcement of harmonised legal limits is essential, accompanied by comprehensive monitoring and the application of good agricultural and storage practises. A systematic and science-based control strategy is necessary to mitigate the risks associated with EAs and to ensure the protection of human and animal health within the food production chain. The aim of this review is to characterise EAs, their pathways of contamination, toxic effects in the body and control measures which should be applied for food and feed.