Aflatoxin Determination: Mycotoxin Analysis and Safety in Foods

What are the Health Hazards of Aflatoxin?

What is Aflatoxin?

Aflatoxins are toxins produced by fungal species such as Aspergillus flavus, Aspergillus parasiticus and Aspergillus nomius. They are usually transferred to foodstuffs through molds that develop during the production process of food products, especially under improper storage and processing conditions.

Chemical Structure: Aflatoxins can be of different types, such as aflatoxins B1, B2, G1, G2 and M1. The most dangerous ones are aflatoxins B1 and M1.
Toxic Effects: Aflatoxins pose a major health risk due to their carcinogenic effects. Aflatoxin B1 is particularly associated with liver cancer and is classified as a group 1 carcinogen by the World Health Organization (WHO). It can also weaken the immune system, lead to growth retardation and genetic mutations.

Where Aflatoxins are Found in Food

Aflatoxins can be found in different food products as a result of mold growth. Aflatoxins are more likely to accumulate in these food products due to unfavorable temperature and humidity conditions.

Cereals and Cereal Products: Grains such as corn, wheat, barley and rice are ideal environments for aflatoxin-producing molds. Post-harvest storage conditions (high humidity and temperature) can increase aflatoxin production.
Nuts and Dried Fruits: Nuts such as hazelnuts, peanuts, walnuts, almonds and raisins can be exposed to aflatoxins, especially in humid conditions. These products also have the potential to contain aflatoxin M1.
Milk and Dairy Products: Aflatoxin B1 can be transformed into aflatoxin M1 and passed to humans through milk. This is due to contaminants in the feed of cows.
Spices and Other Food Products: Spices, dried fruits and some processed food products can also pose a risk of aflatoxins.

Health Effects of Aflatoxins

Exposure to aflatoxins can lead to serious health problems, especially in long-term and high doses:

Liver Cancer: Aflatoxin B1 can accumulate in the liver, causing cellular damage and cancer. Liver cancer is directly related to aflatoxin exposure and is a major public health problem worldwide.
Kidney and Other Organ Damage: Aflatoxins can also have harmful effects on the kidneys, lungs and digestive system. Especially with the suppression of the immune system, susceptibility to infections increases.
Genetics and Growth Retardation: Aflatoxins can cause growth retardation and immune system weakness in children. They also lead to mutations in DNA and pave the way for cancer development.

Nanolab Laboratories Group continues to provide services within the scope of Aflatoxin Determination. We also provide services in Ochratoxin Determination.

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