ergotcontaining

Ergotcontaining refers to substances or materials that include ergot or ergot alkaloids, typically arising from infection of cereal grains by the fungus Claviceps purpurea. The fungus forms ergot sclerotia, which replace the grain kernels on infested ears, most commonly in rye, but also in other cereals.

In food safety and agriculture, ergot contamination is a concern because ergot alkaloids are potent vasoconstrictors. The main alkaloids include ergotamine and ergometrine (ergonovine), with other related compounds also present. Some lysergic acid derivatives are chemically related, and the family has historical significance in medicine and pharmacology.

Historically, ergotism caused by ingesting contaminated grain has been documented for centuries and was once called St. Anthony’s Fire due to burning sensations and gangrene. Convulsive symptoms such as seizures and hallucinations can occur, as can severe vasoconstriction leading to tissue damage. Modern agriculture, grain cleaning, and regulatory limits on ergot alkaloids reduce the risk of exposure.

Medicinally, ergot alkaloids have been used to treat gynecological conditions and to induce and control labor, with drugs such as ergometrine (ergonovine) and related compounds still employed in obstetrics under supervision. Ergotamine has been used to treat migraines in the past, although modern migraine therapy often relies on other medications. Ergot-derived compounds have also been studied for various purposes, while the recreational drug LSD is chemically related to ergot alkaloids.

Regulatory frameworks in many countries regulate acceptable levels of ergot and its alkaloids in food and feed, and monitoring programs help prevent contaminated batches from reaching consumers.