Is it possible to avoid pyrrolizidine alkaloid contamination in equine herb containing nutraceuticals?

Abstract

Summary: Pyrrolizidine alkaloids (PA) are toxic for horses. Not only herbal teas also compound feed products for equids have tested positive for PA contamination. Nutraceuticals for horses are used for their constitutional effects regarding different organ systems, for example the liver. Especially in nutraceuticals used for their hepatoprotective and regenerative effects a high PA content would be a disadvantage. The present article aims to discuss the problems associated with demanding a PA-free nutraceutical and elucidates adapting the HACCP concept with regards to the European Medical Association’s recommendations with the aim of an “as low as reasonably achievable” PA contamination (ALARA concept). In conclusion, the knowledge about the risk of PA contamination should prompt suppliers of herbs as well as manufacturers of herb-based products to voluntarily implement regular quality control measures within their Code of Practice and HACCP concept to minimize PA contamination.