mycotoxinszennyezettség

Mycotoxin szennyezettség refers to the contamination of food and feed with toxic metabolites produced by certain fungi. These fungi, commonly known as molds, can grow on agricultural commodities under favorable conditions of temperature and humidity, both before harvest and during storage. The presence of mycotoxins can pose significant risks to human and animal health, depending on the type of mycotoxin, the level of exposure, and the duration of exposure.

Commonly encountered mycotoxins include aflatoxins, ochratoxin A, fumonisins, deoxynivalenol (DON), and zearalenone. These toxins can affect various organs and systems, leading to a range of adverse health effects such as liver damage, kidney damage, immune suppression, carcinogenic effects, and reproductive problems.

Preventing mycotoxin contamination involves a multi-faceted approach. This includes adopting good agricultural practices to minimize fungal growth on crops, proper drying and storage techniques to reduce moisture content, and implementing effective quality control measures throughout the supply chain. Analytical methods are employed to detect and quantify mycotoxins in food and feed products, allowing for the assessment of contamination levels and the implementation of regulatory limits. These limits are established by regulatory bodies to protect public health and ensure food safety. Efforts to mitigate mycotoxin risks are crucial for maintaining the safety and quality of the global food supply.