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Aflatoxins are naturally occurring mycotoxins that act as carcinogens and are produced by two types of mold, Aspergillus flavus and Aspergillus parasiticus. Aflatoxins are carcinogenic to both rodents and humans. After entering the body Aflatoxins are metabolized to an intermediate reactive, an epoxide.
Aspergillus flavus is common and widespread in nature and is most often found when peanuts and certain grains are grown under stressful conditions such as drought. The mold occurs in soil, decaying vegetation, hay, and grains undergoing microbiological deterioration and invades all types of organic substrates whenever and wherever the conditions are favorable for its growth. Favorable conditions include high moisture content and high temperature. At least 13 different types of aflatoxin are produced in nature with aflatoxin B1 considered as the most toxic. While the presence of Aspergillus flavus does not always indicate harmful levels of aflatoxin it does mean that the potential for aflatoxin production is present.
Major types of Aflatoxins and its metabolites
- Aflatoxin B1 & B2 : produced by Aspergillus flavus and Aspergillus parasiticus.
- Aflatoxin G1 & G2 : produced by Aspergillus parasiticus.
- Aflatoxin MI : metabolite of Aflatoxin B1 in humans and animals (exposure in ng can come from mother's milk).
- Aflatoxicol.
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