Global activities of mycotoxin societies in safeguarding food and health and future challenges

Mycotoxin societies and networks act as essential coordinators, bridging research, capacity building, policy development, and practical risk management across global agri-food chains, particularly in low- and middle-income countries. This review provides an integrated analysis of the origins, missions, activities, and verifiable impacts of key mycotoxin societies and networks operating in Africa (e.g., ASM), Latin America (SLAM), Asia (TSM, Vietnam Sub-Society, JSM, ASIAM), Europe (SMR), Morocco (MSM), and internationally (ISM), alongside the influential MYTOX-SOUTH® network. The findings underscore concrete achievements across four impact categories: a) regulatory influences through evidence-based contributions to national and international standards; b) risk assessment inputs supporting bodies like EFSA and JECFA; c) local implementation successes, such as enhanced food control systems, laboratory accreditations, and farmer practices reducing contamination levels; and (d) measurable capacity building via symposia, workshops, fellowships, and training programs reaching thousands of early-career scientists and professionals. These mycotoxin societies (ASIAM, ASM, ISM, JSM, MSM, SLAM, SMR, TSM, and VSM) demonstrate strategic value in translating science into policy and practice, fostering harmonization, and strengthening global food safety. Ultimately, mycotoxin societies play a pivotal role in promoting resilient, equitable food systems worldwide by connecting researchers, policymakers, industry, and stakeholders.