Contamination in foods and feed is a major expense and incurs disease in crops, animals and humans alike.
Scientists at the National Nutrition and Food Technology Research Institute in Iran looked at the potential for lactic acid bacteria and yeasts to eliminate, deactivate or reduce availability of this contamination. The paper available here shows the ability of microbes to act as antibacterials and antifungals. Also, they may have properties which help remove heavy metals like copper, lead and arsenic as well as many other toxins. Their mechanism of action is discussed as well as how other factors may impact the removal.
This line of thinking may present a major player in the future food supply of the planet.