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A mycotoxin (from the Greek μύκης mykes, "fungus" and τοξικός toxikos, "poisonous") [1] [2] is a toxic secondary metabolite produced by fungi [3] [4] and is capable of causing disease and death in both humans and other animals.
Mycotoxicology is the branch of mycology that focuses on analyzing and studying the toxins produced by fungi, known as mycotoxins. [1] In the food industry it is important to adopt measures that keep mycotoxin levels as low as practicable, especially those that are heat-stable.
Some mold produce mycotoxins, chemical components of their cell walls, that can pose serious health risks to humans and animals. "Toxic mold" refers to mold which produce mycotoxins, such as Stachybotrys chartarum. [7] [dubious – discuss] Exposure to high levels of mycotoxins can lead to neurological disorders and death [citation needed ...
And certain types of mold — aka the "ugly" — can produce toxic substances called mycotoxins under the right conditions, says Wee. These can make anyone sick and pose serious health risks.
Levels of mycotoxin secretion can rely on varying temperatures, the ideal temperature for mycotoxins to grow is from 20 degrees Celsius to 37 degrees Celsius. [37] Mycotoxin production also relies heavily on water activity, the ideal range would be from 0.83 to 0.9 aw and higher. [37] Humidity plays a key in the production of mycotoxins as well ...
Aspergillus versicolor is a slow-growing species of filamentous fungus commonly found in damp indoor environments and on food products. [1] [2] It has a characteristic musty odor associated with moldy homes and is a major producer of the hepatotoxic and carcinogenic mycotoxin sterigmatocystin.
Mycotoxins may or may not be produced by the invading mold. Dermatophytes are the parasitic fungi that cause skin infections such as athlete's foot and tinea cruris. Most dermatophyte fungi take the form of mold, as opposed to a yeast, with an appearance (when cultured) that is similar to other molds.
In a nutshell, your daily coffee fix is unlikely to be a significant source of mycotoxins or lead to mycotoxin-related illness. Coffee growers and roasters are also exploring novel ways to ...