Fumonisins are frequently found in corn infected with Fusarium moiliforme. However, fusarium is a very common organism that is often present with no production of fumonisin. This fungus occurs in most temperate regions of the world. It is most likely to be seen before harvest. Sprinkler irrigation may heighten risk of fusarium infection.

Trichothecens comprise a group of toxins that share a common chemical structure, though produced by a variety of fungi particularly Fusaria and related genera. Purple red moulds, occasionally detected in corn, wheat and soybeans, signal the presence of tricothecens.

Ochratoxins are produced by Aspergillus and Penecillium fungi. Ochratoxin A is a common contaminate of barley and occurs in cool, wet conditions.
Zearalenone is produced by several Fusarium moulds under cool, wet conditions. It grows on grain before harvest, but can worsen in storage. Insect damage increases the susceptibility of crops. Infected corn may be identified by dark purple discoloration and affected wheat by pink tips.