Concept in Definition ABC

Some fungi generate a highly toxic substance, aflatoxin. The effects of this substance in the body can lead to different types of cancer, especially liver cancer. There are more than 400 different types of aflatoxins, of which about 15 are especially toxic. All of them are integrated into the category of mycotoxins (mycology is the discipline that studies fungi).

Its effects on human and animal health

These mycotoxins have a potentially carcinogenic molecular structure. There are basically two fungi that activate this substance: Aspergillus flavus and Aspergillus parasiticus. Both are present in some foodsuch as nuts, fruits, corn, and wheat. The toxicity of aflotoxins is activated when they are combined with protein of the organism. To reduce the toxicity of these foods, health authorities usually impose some type of rule (For example, in some countries a maximum of 20 micrograms of aflotoxins is allowed to be present in food).

Aflatoxins are directly related to some diseases of the kidneys and digestive system. On the other hand, they cause tumors in the liver and sometimes trigger carcinogenic processes. The main symptoms associated with these pathologies are abdominal pain, vomiting, fever and anorexia.

The feed consumed by animals can also be affected by these mycotoxins. Insect attack and conditions temperature of food are the two main causes that put in danger to the animals.

How can it be prevented?

The storage of food must be done correctly (for example, it is preferable not to use granaries and it is advisable to keep food in dry places).

Farmers should control the levels of aflatoxins in feed and when they detect their presence they have to report it to the health authorities.

It is advisable for farmers to prepare the land for culture using seeds that have been treated with hygiene guarantees. In the sowing process, excessive heat must be avoided, as this circumstance is potentially harmful to crops.

Furthermore, weeds must be kept under control and damage caused by insects must be minimized. Finally, it is advisable to harvest when the humidity is less than 15% and to carry out crop rotations periodically.

Feed storage and feed systems transport They must also comply with certain sanitary guarantees (for example, a periodic disinfection of the facilities and a verification of the charging systems).

Fotolia photos: Bits and Splits / Juan Gartner