aflatoxins

aflatoxins , a group of secondary metabolites that are cancer-causing byproducts of a mold that grows on nuts and grains, particularly peanuts. Although aflatoxin is most commonly produced when the potentially affected foods are improperly stored, recent studies have documented its production in the field, particularly if severe climatic changes occur or if the plants are attacked by insects. Most industrialized nations strictly regulate the aflatoxin level in human food. However, many of these products are used in animal feed, and if an animal consumes infected food, the aflatoxin passes to people in contaminated milk and meat products. Aflatoxin is a carcinogenic for certain animals, particularly cattle. Among humans, it is associated with liver cancer, particularly in Third World nations where malnutrition and other health problems are also prevalent.

aflatoxins A group of mycotoxins formed by the mould Aspergillus flavus, which can grow on peanuts and cereal grains when they are stored under damp and warm conditions. Several different aflatoxins are known; in addition to being acutely toxic, many, especially aflatoxin B1, are potent carcinogens. Fungal spoilage of foods with A. flavus is a common problem in many tropical areas, and aflatoxin is believed to be the cause of much primary liver cancer in parts of Africa. Aflatoxins can be secreted in milk, so there is strict control of the level in cattle feed.

aflatoxin One of a group of toxins produced by fungi of the genus Aspergillus. In animals, the toxins have carcinogenic and other toxic properties. Feedstuffs contaminated with aflatoxins have caused severe outbreaks of disease among farm livestock.