What toxin does Aspergillus flavus produce?
aflatoxins
Host range: Aspergillus flavus has a broad host range as an opportunistic pathogen/saprobe. It is an extremely common soil fungus. The major concern with this fungus in agriculture is that it produces highly carcinogenic toxins called aflatoxins which are a health hazard to animals.
Is Aspergillus flavus and aflatoxin?
The main fungi that produce aflatoxins are Aspergillus flavus and Aspergillus parasiticus, which are abundant in warm and humid regions of the world. Aflatoxin-producing fungi can contaminate crops in the field, at harvest, and during storage.
Does peanut oil contain aflatoxins?
There is a frequent misconception based on solubility considerations and developed market surveys that aflatoxins do not occur in peanut oil. Consequently, these peanut oils can have high contamination levels.
How much aflatoxin is in peanut butter?
The average percentage of positive samples was: 32.8% for peanut candy, 52.8% for peanut butter, 7.8% for peanuts, and 44.1% for peanut flour. Aflatoxins were detected in 32.7% of samples and the levels from 0.2 μg/kg to 513.4 μg/kg [8].
How can you protect yourself from the effects of aflatoxins?
Protect Yourself Against the Harmful Effects of Aflatoxin and Endotoxin. Wear a properly fitted N95 approved mask in any dusty condition. Tractor cabs with poor filtering systems will not provide protection from mold spores, wear a mask when combining moldy corn. Clean and change cab filters regularly.
Should I worry about aflatoxins?
An aspergillus infection can weaken the plants enough to reduce crop yield, which is a concern for the farmers. Chronic aflatoxin exposure can lead to liver damage or liver cancer, especially in individuals with pre-existing conditions such as a Hepatitis B infection.
How do you remove aflatoxin?
The most common way to remove AFB1 using physical methods is to heat and use gamma rays. Aflatoxins are highly thermostable. Studies have shown that AFB1 levels are significantly reduced by heating at 100 and 150°C for 90 minutes, respectively, at 41.9 and 81.2%.
