Mycotoxicosis is acute or chronic poisoning caused by mycotoxins - mold toxins occurring, among others, in in the bruised fruit. Mycotoxins are very harmful to human he alth, and in extreme cases they can even lead to death. Find out in which foods you can find mycotoxins and how to avoid poisoning.

Mycotoxicosisis acute or chronic poisoning of the organism caused bymycotoxins- toxic metabolites of some mold species. They show mutagenic (may cause genetic mutations), teratogenic (may cause fetal defects) and possibly carcinogenic properties. Mycotoxin poisoning can lead to the development of many diseases, and in extreme cases even death.

Scientists have already identified over 400 mytotoxins. The most famous is patulin, which is found in bruised fruit. Other common mycotoxins are: aflatoxins, ochratoxin A, zearalenone, trichothecenes, and fumonisins.

Where do mycotoxins come from?

Fungi, commonly referred to as mold, thrive when the air is sufficiently moist. Then, in the process of secondary metabolism, they produce poisonous mycotoxins. By secreting these harmful substances, they defend themselves against "competition" from other species of fungi or bacteria. It's their way of protecting their territory.

How can mycotoxin poisoning happen?

Toxins that cause mycotoxicosis are ubiquitous in the environment. They can be located in damp residential buildings (they should be looked for, among others, under wallpapers and carpets), especially those in flood areas. They can also thrive in houses insulated with glass wool. It is worth knowing that their spread is favored by air conditioning and humidifying systems. Then contact with them occurs through inhalation and skin. However, mycotoxin poisoning usually occurs after eating contaminated food.

Mold often develops inside the fruit, on the seed, and the fruit appears he althy from the outside. Sometimes such fruits are delivered with patulin for processing into juices and preserves.

In what foods can mycotoxins be found?

They can be found in products such as peanuts,maize grain and its products, cereal grains, cereal products (flour, bread), wine and beer. Poisoning can also occur after eating contaminated vegetables, nuts and other oilseeds, legume seeds, fruit (and their preserves, e.g. jams), and spices. Meat, milk (and dairy products), and eggs from infected animals can also pose serious he alth risks.

Cutting a piece of bruised fruit (e.g. an apple) does not get rid of mold. Mycotoxins are present throughout the fruit and it is best to discard it.

For example, 123 people died in Kenya in 2004, and about 200 required treatment from eating corn kernels contaminated with aflatoxin. Contamination of maize was caused by too long storage of moist grain (a toxic-causing fungus developed on the moist grain, which led to the accumulation of mycotoxin). The problem of mycotoxins also affects the inhabitants of South America and India. All because of the primitive harvesting and storage conditions, as well as high humidity, high temperature and low level of agricultural education.

Mycotoxicosis - symptoms of infection

The most common symptoms of mycotoxicosis are:

  • digestive system disorders: diarrhea, abdominal pain
  • apathy and fatigue
  • blood coagulation disorders
  • immune disorders of the organism
  • loss of consciousness

Mycotoxins can lead not only to poisoning, but also to the development of allergies, respiratory diseases, liver diseases, ulcers and bleeding in the intestines. Mycotoxins also have an adverse effect on the nervous system.

Mycotoxicosis - treatment

In case of food poisoning, you can give medicinal charcoal (activated), which helps to remove many toxins and also reduces irritation of the mucous membranes, and then you should see a doctor.

Important

How to avoid mycotoxin contamination?

1) You must not carve out the rotten spots that are on the bruised fruit and eat the rest. Such a fruit only seems to be he althy. In fact, it is completely infected with toxins (they are even in the seeds). You should also not use a spoon to remove the mold that is on the top layer of yogurt or jam, because the entire package is most likely already overgrown with it. It is worth knowing that not all molds are white. For example, mushrooms of the genusAspergillus flavus , which are found mainly on bread, are warm, yellow in color. 2) Only handle food with clean hands. 3)Due to the air which is full of falling fungus spores, you should not place food directly on the table. It is best to use clean plates and chopping boards. 4) Store-bought products should be put in the refrigerator as soon as possible. 5) Mold under wallpaper or carpeting or in the corner of the bathtub should be removed as soon as possible. To prevent it from re-developing, ventilate your home frequently.

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