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In our study, hazelnut samples taken randomly from 20 different markets in Afyonkarahisar were evaluated by High Performance Liquid Chromatography (HPLC) for their aflatoxin B1 (AFB1), aflatoxin B2 (AFB2), aflatoxin G1 (AFG1), aflatoxin G2 (AFG2), total aflatoxin (AF) and ochratoxin A (OTA) contents. In addition, in order to determine the fungal contamination in the samples, fungus was isolated and classified at the genus level. According to the results obtained, the fungus was isolated from hazelnut samples in all regions except two localities. 1.8070 ng/ml AFG1 was found to be the highest aflatoxin amount in the central 5th sampling area. When the data obtained was evaluated, the detected aflatoxin amounts did not exceed the Turkish Food Codex limits. Therefore, no high potential risk was detected in the hazelnut samples in the study. However, in order to make a potential risk assessment; even if aflatoxin and ochratoxin are present in small amounts, they should be evaluated for the possibility of being taken into the body with various foods and accumulating in the liver in the long term, and this study will the basis for future studies. Additionally, there has been no previous study on this subject in Afyonkarahisar. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The study was conducted to investigate the pathology of naturally occurring co-contamination of mycotoxins in poultry farms and the role of local management practices in the overall scenario. During the investigation, different chicken farms (n=73) in the Aizawl district of Mizoram state (India) were surveyed and monitored for management practices, the occurrence of disease and mortality. The feed samples collected from affected farms were tested for the presence of Aflatoxin and Ochratoxin by ELISA kits. The dead birds were subjected to necropsy. Liver and kidneys from the dead birds were processed for histopathological studies. Ten feed samples out of 49 tested (20.4%) were found affected by co-contamination with Aflatoxin and Ochratoxin. In this study, the mean level of Aflatoxin and Ochratoxin was 13.302 ppb and1.822 ppb, and the median level 12.143 ppb and1.674, ppb, respectively. Clinical signs were ruffled feathers, depression, dullness, huddling, poor growth and, anorexia. Necropsy revealed pathological lesions in visceral and lymphoid organs. Histopathological findings were inflammations, degenerative, and necrotic lesions in liver and kidneys. Poor management practices were observed in affected farms. A perusal of available literature did not reveal any study on the presence of co-contamination of Mycotoxicosis in poultry and poultry feed in Aizawl, Mizoram. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In this study, liquid chromatography tandem mass spectrometry (LC–MS/MS) was employed to analyze the prevalence of 10 mycotoxins in 140 samples from the Chinese market, aiming to assess the exposure of Chinese individuals to these mycotoxins through the consumption of wine, baijiu, and huangjiu. Mycotoxins were detected in 98% of the samples, with fumonisins (FBs), deoxynivalenol (DON), and zearalenone (ZEN) exhibiting positive rates exceeding 50%. Regarding the exposure of the Chinese population to mycotoxins resulting from alcoholic beverage consumption, fruit wine intake made a relatively significant contribution to aflatoxin exposure, while baijiu showed a relatively significant contribution to ZEN exposure (1.84%). The analysis of the correlation between grape variety, wine region, and mycotoxin content demonstrated that FBs, ZEN, and DON were significantly influenced by grape variety and wine region. This research holds great significance in protecting human life and health, as well as in the production of safer alcoholic beverages.

Developing a green effective approach and a suitable applicative process for increasing the efficiency of microbial nanomaterial synthesis is an emerging prospect for future industrial production. This was accomplished by employing exopolysaccharides (EPS) to obtain potent silver nanoparticles using Penicillium citrinum (EPS−AgNPs) as a reducing and stabilizing agent. EPS−AgNPs were analyzed by UV–Vis spectrophotometry, which showed a peak of absorbance at 420 nm. TEM was used to determine the morphology of the EPS−AgNPs and showed that the particles were 14.4 nm in size, well dispersed, and spherical. The stabilization of (EPS−AgNPs) was caused by amides and amines groups, which were confirmed via Fourier transform infrared. Moreover, the EPS−AgNPs showed excellent antibacterial activities against various human pathogenic bacterial strains in comparison to the potent antibiotics. Additionally, EPS−AgNPs were examined for their anticancer properties. Furthermore, EPS−AgNPs had a significant impact on the ochratoxin production. Finally, our findings confirm the benefits of adopting a bio green technique for the synthesis of antibacterial and detoxifying nanoparticles, which are predicted to provide new pathways for various cancers and infectious microbial diseases treatment. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Mycotoxin contamination of animal feed is a complex issue in both animal wellness and food safety. The most diffused mycotoxins subject to the official control of animal feed are Aflatoxin B1 (AF), Zearalenone (ZEA), Deoxynivalenol (DON), Ochratoxin A (OCRA), Fumonisins (FUMO), and T-2/HT-2 toxins. This work describes the results of five years of monitoring focused on the evaluation of mycotoxin contamination of animal feed. Analytical determinations were carried out by means of accredited ELISA. The obtained results showed a non-alarming scenario, with several samples resulting as "non-compliant" according to the Maximum Residue Limits (MRLs) set in European Regulation No. 574/2011. Out of 722 analyzed samples coming from 2 Italian regions, Apulia and Basilicata, 14 samples were characterized by mycotoxin concentrations higher than related MRL; in particular, 5, 4, and 5 non-compliant samples for DON, AF, and ZEA, respectively. This study also evaluated the possible correlations between mycotoxin type and feed use with a special focus on animal sensitivity to mycotoxins. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The objective was the development and validation of a method for simultaneous mycotoxins determination (aflatoxins B1 — AFB1, G1 — AFG1, G2 — AFG2 and M1 — AFM1, ochratoxin — OTA, and zearalenone — ZEA) in milk by high-performance liquid chromatography with fluorescence detector. A mixture planning was used to define the mobile phase and a fractional factorial design to define a flow rate of 1.4 mL min−1, allowing the subsequent application of a rotational central composite design (CCRD). Through the CCRD, it was possible to obtain the desired resolution of 1.86 and 2.95 between the peaks of AFM1-AFG2 and ZEA-OTA, respectively, using acidification of the mobile phase 0.85%, column temperature 38 °C, and injection volume of 40 µL. In parallel, an extraction method based on the QuEChERS method was developed. The limits of quantification were 0.16, 1.08, 0.01, 0.12, 0.33, and 8.93 µg·kg−1 for AFM1, AFB1, AFG1, AFG2, OTA, and ZEA, respectively. Recovery varied between 73 and 114%. The method was applied to evaluate multi-mycotoxins' occurrence in fluid milk (n = 30). The presence of AFB1, AFG1, AFG2, and AFM1 was detected in 26%, 30%, 93%, and 80% of the samples, respectively; however, the presence of AFM1 was below the maximum limit allowed by Brazilian legislation (0.5 µg·kg−1). OTA and ZEA were below the limit of detection. Thus, the method was capable and efficient in quantifying multi-mycotoxins in fluid milk and can also be applied as a routine method to monitor milk quality. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Medicinal herbs are modern feed additives for poultry that have antioxidant, anti-microbial, and immune-modulatory impacts. In this study, the protective effects of medicinal natural herbs (Herb-AllTM LIVER) on performance, litter, immunity, biochemical changes, and histopathological changes in broilers fed Mycotoxins-contaminated diets were assessed. One-day-old chicks were randomly assigned into 4 groups (n=120). Group A was fed a standard commercial diet; Group B was fed a standard diet + (Herb-AllTM LIVER); Group C (positive control) was fed a Mycotoxins-contaminated diet, and Group D received a Mycotoxins-contaminated diet + Herb-AllTM LIVER. Performance, litter hygiene, immunity, and histopathological changes were determined. Results indicated that herbal supplements (B and D) significantly improved the body weight gain and FCR of birds. Also, litter hygiene, blood indices, antibody titers, and organ functions were enhanced. In group D, liver and kidney histological architectures were mostly restored, as well as Caspase-3 and TNF expressions were moderately enhanced. It can be concluded that using Herb-AllTM LIVER as a feed additive reduces the adverse effects of Mycotoxins on broilers. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Bread is the staple food in many parts of the world. Like other foods, bread can contain mycotoxins resulting from microbial development throughout the supply chain (from field to table). In this study, baguette-style bread from small artisanal bakeries (direct) and supermarkets (par-baked loaves made by large companies) in Castile and Leon (Spain) was analyzed. Both white and whole-grain breads were collected from all retail outlets. The mycotoxins analyzed included deoxynivalenol (DON), ochratoxin (OTA), and aflatoxin B1 and B2 (AFB1, AFB2). All of the bread samples studied had mycotoxin levels below the maximum limits established by legislation. The presence of DON was higher than that of OTA, and AFB1 and AFB2 could not be quantified. Industrial breads had higher levels of DON and OTA (only in the whole-grain breads) compared to artisanal breads. However, no significant differences were found between white and industrial breads beyond those mentioned above. These results demonstrate that the established control chains ensure low mycotoxin content in bread of this type. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Simple Summary: Harmful fungi that contaminate food and feed can negatively impact human and animal health. We measured the ability of safer food-grade and feed-grade materials to remove several mycotoxins that contaminate food and feed. Some Aspergillus fungi produce aflatoxins that can contaminate corn, peanuts, and tree nuts. Certain Aspergillus and Penicillium fungi produce ochratoxin A, which can contaminate cereal grains and fruits. Some Fusarium fungi produce zearalenone, which can contaminate corn. Charcoal and biochar materials derived from coconuts and pine tree wood can remove aflatoxin B1, ochratoxin A, and zearalenone under conditions that simulate digestion. These carbon-based materials show promise as greener methods to help reduce exposure to the effects of toxins found in food and feed. Mycotoxin sequestration materials are important tools to reduce mycotoxin illness and enable proper handling of mycotoxin-contaminated commodities. Three food-grade bentonite clays and four generally recognized as safe (GRAS) charcoal/biochar carbon materials that are marketed as feed additives and supplements were evaluated for their ability to sequester the mycotoxins aflatoxin B1, ochratoxin A, and zearalenone. The surface area of the clays varied between 32.1 to 51.4 mg2/g, and the surface area of the carbon-based materials varied from 1.7 to 1735 mg2/g. In vitro, gastric fluid studies indicated that certain pine biochar and activated coconut charcoal could sequester high amounts (85+%) of the mycotoxins at 1 ppm levels or below. However, some biochar materials with lower surface area properties lacked binding capacity. The coconut shell charcoal and pine biochar utilize agricultural waste products in a manner that significantly reduces carbon emissions and provides valuable materials to minimize exposure to toxins found in food and feed. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Brazil is one of the largest food producers and exporters in the world, with the responsibility for producing food in adequate quantity and quality for consumption. In Brazil, the National Health Surveillance Agency defines the maximum tolerated limits (MTL) for mycotoxins in food, as presented in RDC/ANVISA No. 07 of 2011. This review begins with a general introduction to Brazilian legislation regarding MTL and regulations for mycotoxins. Subsequently, classification, toxicity, health risks and the mycotoxins MTL in grains and cereals are presented, followed by a collection of the main works published in the last ten years where the MTL is surpassed in different grains and cereals. The risk of co-exposure to mycotoxins, and studies demonstrating the different mycotoxins co-occurrence in grains and cereals grown in Brazil are also addressed. At least, the Brazilian legislation on mycotoxins is compared to the USA and EU. Different studies from the last ten years indicate that the mycotoxins MTL is exceeded in several grains and cereals intended for human consumption. Furthermore, co-occurrence is also demonstrated in different studies, occurring mainly in wheat, rice, corn, barley, cocoa and soybeans. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Copyright of Food Research & Development is the property of Food Research & Development Editorial Department and its content may not be copied or emailed to multiple sites or posted to a listserv without the copyright holder's express written permission. However, users may print, download, or email articles for individual use. This abstract may be abridged. No warranty is given about the accuracy of the copy. Users should refer to the original published version of the material for the full abstract. (Copyright applies to all Abstracts.)

Spices have been known to be highly contaminated commodities with mycotoxins. The Codex Alimentarius reports that nutmeg is particularly contaminated with aflatoxins (AFs) and ochratoxin A (OTA). To eliminate contaminated commodities, visual sorting and bright greenish-yellow fluorescence (BGYF) sorting are used as low-cost technologies in production engineering. In Indonesia, nutmeg is mainly sorted by visual sorting and classified into three grades according to the Indonesian national standards, with importers further defining their own brand as imported products. In this study, we evaluate the efficacy of BGYF sorting as a further selection method to reduce AFs and OTA using the importer's own brand. Further, the level of these mycotoxins and the relationship between fungal flora and mycotoxin contamination were examined. These results showed that BGYF sorting effectively reduces AFs as well as OTA. In addition, BGYF-positive groups were infected by Aspergillus sections Flavi, Nigri, and Circumdati. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Medicinal plant extracts are a promising source of bioactive minor contents. The present study aimed to evaluate the distinguished volatile content of Algerian Cymbopogon citratus (DC.) Stapf before and after the microfluidization process and their related antimicrobial and anti-mycotoxigenic impacts and changes. The GC-MS apparatus was utilized for a comparative examination of Algerian lemongrass essential oil (LGEO) with its microfluidization nanoemulsion (MF-LGEO) volatile content. The MF-LGEO was characterized using Zetasizer and an electron microscope. Cytotoxicity, antibacterial, and antifungal activities were determined for the LGEO and MF-LGEO. The result reflected changes in the content of volatiles for the MF-LGEO. The microfluidizing process enhanced the presence of compounds known for their exceptional antifungal and antibacterial properties in MF-LGEO, namely, neral, geranial, and carvacrol. However, certain terpenes, such as camphor and citronellal, were absent, while decanal, not found in the raw LGEO, was detected. The droplet diameter was 20.76 ± 0.36 nm, and the polydispersity index (PDI) was 0.179 ± 0.03. In cytotoxicity studies, LGEO showed higher activity against the HepG2 cell line than MF-LGEO. Antibacterial LGEO activity against Gram-positive bacteria recorded an inhibitory zone from 41.82 ± 2.84 mm to 58.74 ± 2.64 mm, while the zone ranged from 12.71 ± 1.38 mm to 16.54 ± 1.42 mm for Gram-negative bacteria. Antibacterial activity was enhanced to be up to 71.43 ± 2.54 nm and 31.54 ± 1.01 nm for MF-LGEO impact against Gram-positive and Gram-negative pathogens. The antifungal effect was considerable, particularly against Fusarium fungi. It reached 17.56 ± 1.01 mm and 13.04 ± 1.37 mm for LGEO and MF-LGEO application of a well-diffusion assay, respectively. The MF-LGEO was more promising in reducing mycotoxin production in simulated fungal growth media due to the changes linked to essential compounds content. The reduction ratio was 54.3% and 74.57% for total aflatoxins (AFs) and ochratoxin A (OCA) contents, respectively. These results reflect the microfluidizing improvement impact regarding the LGEO antibacterial, antifungal and anti-mycotoxigenic properties. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Mycotoxins can accumulate in raw materials of plant origin at different technological stages of its production. Most often, the producers of mycotoxins are fungi of the genera Aspergillus , Fusarium , Penicillium and some others. The clinical symptoms of mycotoxicoses vary significantly, and lethal outcomes are possible. For this reason, the mycotoxicological study of various types of feed under production conditions is an indispensable component of veterinary support of industrial animal husbandry. As part of this study, a retrospective analysis of the results of a mycotoxicological study of feed for different animal species was carried out in the Omsk region in 2017-2021. All feeds received by the Omsk Regional Veterinary Laboratory for 5 years for the determination of mycotoxins were examined for the presence of ochratoxin A, zearalenone, T-2 toxin, aflatoxin B 1, deoxynivalenol. It was established that almost 70 % of the studied samples contained mycotoxins, including their maximum allowable level was exceeded in 74 samples. Exceeding the permissible levels was noted for the content of T-2 toxin (34 samples), zearalenone (27 samples), ochratoxin A (6 samples), aflatoxin B 1 (4 samples) and deoxynivalenol (3 samples). The largest number of cases of contamination was recorded in the study of feed and feed mixtures. The greatest danger is the multiple contamination of feed with mycotoxins. This increases the risk of developing comorbid conditions and the spread of opportunistic infections.

Mycotoxin is a worldwide problem threatening animal health and performance as well as public health. The objective of this experiment was to test the effect of ammonization on elimination of common mycotoxins in laying hen compound feed (CF) and dairy cattle total mixed ration (TMR). The CF for laying hens and TMR for dairy cows were contaminated with commonly occurring mycotoxins [aflatoxin B1 (AFB1), ochratoxin A (OTA), and zearalenone (ZEA)] at 25 times of their accepted legal limits (20 ppb, 200 ppb and 500 ppb, respectively). They were then subjected to ammonization with ammonium bicarbonate (NH4HCO3) at 50C for 24 hours under the atmospheric pressure. Mycotoxin levels were analyzed using the LC-MS/MS technique. The elimination levels in CF and TMR were 53% and 54% for AFB1; 31% and 31% for OTA and 22% and 22% for ZEA, respectively. In conclusion, ammonization was effective in destroying common mycotoxin, at an order of AFB1 > OTA > ZEA.

针对市场在售的调和油、玉米油、大豆油、花生油和菜籽油等食用植物油,随机购买20种共290份食用植物油样品。采用液相色谱法测定AFB1、AFB2、AFG1、AFG2以及OTA、OTB真菌毒素的含量，对食用植物油中黄曲霉毒素和赭曲霉毒素的污染水平和分布特征进行分析。结果表明：20种290份食用植物油样品中，有16种共67份样品存在不同程度的真菌毒素污染，总污染率达到23.1%，不同种类食用植物油污染呈现“多种类、共分布”的特点，其中AFG1污染率（14.8%）最高，其次为OTA（13.4%）。绝大多数阳性样本受1～4种真菌毒素污染，仅有少数阳性样本受真菌毒素污染数量达到5种。总体上食用植物油样品受到多种真菌毒素的混合污染情况比较严重，应引起一定的重视。 A total of 290 samples from 20 kinds of edible vegetable oils such as blended oil, corn oil, soybean oil, peanut oil, and rapeseed oil on the market were randomly purchased. Then, the contents of AFB1, AFB2, AFG1, AFG2, OTA and OTB were accurately determined by HPLC to investigate the pollution levels and distribution characteristics of aflatoxins and ochratoxins in edible vegetable oils. The results showed that among the 20 kinds of 290 edible vegetable oil samples, 16 kinds of 67 samples suffered from different degrees of mycotoxin contamination, and the total pollution rate reached 23.1%. The pollution of different kinds of edible vegetable oils presented the characteristics of multi-species and co-distribution. AFG1 had the highest pollution rate (14.8%), followed by OTA (13.4%). Besides, the vast majority of positive samples were contaminated by 1-4 kinds of mycotoxins, only a few positive samples were contaminated with 5 kinds of mycotoxins. Overall, the problem that the edible vegetable oil samples are polluted by multiple mycotoxins is serious and should be paid attention to.

Copyright of Journal of Food Safety & Quality is the property of Journal of Food Safety & Quality Editorial Department and its content may not be copied or emailed to multiple sites or posted to a listserv without the copyright holder's express written permission. However, users may print, download, or email articles for individual use. This abstract may be abridged. No warranty is given about the accuracy of the copy. Users should refer to the original published version of the material for the full abstract. (Copyright applies to all Abstracts.)

Coriander seeds consumption, like other spices, has increased due to its culinary use, medicinal benefits, and its essential oil. However, there are few reports in the scientific literature on the prevalence of mycotoxins in this spice. In this report, an easy and simple method was proposed for the determination of the aflatoxin group (AFB1, AFB2, AFG1, and AFG2) and ochratoxin A (OTA) in coriander seeds. The recoveries of analytes ranged from 72 to 102% in spiked samples (0.5–5 µg/kg), with RSD below 11%. The limits of quantification (LOQ) are between 0.12 and 0.5 µg/kg. The proposed method represents an improvement compared to previous studies. It was tested for the determination of 13 samples, proving that it is fast, efficient, and sensitive. Only OTA was identified in four samples, all at levels lower than the European limits defined for some spices (0.88 and 5.4 µg/kg). Such methods are needed for monitoring these toxins in this spice to ensure consumer safety and provide insight into their occurrence. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Mycotoxins are toxic and carcinogenic metabolites produced by groups of filamentous fungi that colonize food crops. Aflatoxin B1 (AFB1), ochratoxin A (OTA) and fumonisin B1 (FB1) are among the most relevant agricultural mycotoxins, as they can induce various toxic processes in humans and animals. To detect AFB1, OTA and FB1 in the most varied matrices, chromatographic and immunological methods are primarily used; however, these techniques are time-consuming and expensive. In this study, we demonstrate that unitary alphatoxin nanopore can be used to detect and differentiate these mycotoxins in aqueous solution. The presence of AFB1, OTA or FB1 inside the nanopore induces reversible blockage of the ionic current flowing through the nanopore, with distinct characteristics of blockage that are unique to each of the three toxins. The process of discrimination is based on the residual current ratio calculation and analysis of the residence time of each mycotoxin inside the unitary nanopore. Using a single alphatoxin nanopore, the mycotoxins could be detected at the nanomolar level, indicating that alphatoxin nanopore is a promising molecular tool for discriminatory analysis of mycotoxins in aqueous solution. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Density functional theory (DFT) computing was used in this study to examine the feasibility for detecting the interaction of nitrogen (Ochra@AlN...N), oxygen (Ochra@AlN...O), and chlorine (Ochra@AlN...Cl) with the surface of an aluminum nitride (Al12N12) nanocluster. The DFT/PBE0-D3/aug-cc-pVDZ approach was heavily utilised in the computations of the quantum electronic structural characteristics, interaction energies, and sensing parameters. Fascinatingly, the results showed that Ochra@AlN...O, with a value of 2.04 eV, possessed a higher energy gap, making it the most stable among the spatial orientations. Meanwhile, Ochra@AlN...Cl had the lowest energy gap of 1.55 eV, making it the least stable and more reactive compound. More so, the natural bond analysis (NBO) analysis indicated that Ochra@AlN...O has the highest energy of perturbation among adsorption atoms. However, a decrement was observed in the energy value for Ochra@AlN...Cl, Ochra@AlN...N, and Ochra@AlN...O with energy values of 1.55, 1.82, and 2.04 eV, respectively, compared to the energy gap value of 2.37 eV of the Al12N12 nanocluster. Also, the adsorption study showed that Ochra@AlN...O interaction had the greatest negative adsorption energy of -2.466 eV and thus, possesses the fastest recovery time of 3.3E-158 s. The recovery time for Ochra@AlN...N was 1.6E-156 s, and the least responsive was Ochra@AlN...Cl with a recovery time of 1.94E-86. Ochra@AlN...Cl indicated the fastest response with a time of 1.616 s, followed by 1.757 s for Ochra@AlN...N, and the least responsive was Ochra@AlN...O with 1.881 s. Thus, it can be inferred that Ochra@AlN...O is the most preferred spatial orientation and interaction site of ochratoxin upon interaction with the AlN surface due to its high adsorption energy, stability, perturbation energy, and recovery time. Using the aforementioned method, this study provides valuable insights into the interactions of Ochra with the AlN surface and its potential as a sensing material.

Mycotoxins are toxic secondary metabolites produced by fungi when they colonies the foodstuffs. These are potent toxins having severe health consequences in people, being mutagenic, teratogenic, and carcinogenic. In agricultural commodities, the contamination of mycotoxins is more prevalent. Several fungi can produce mycotoxins on agricultural products during harvest or in postharvest, and they have significant adverse effects on both animal and human beings. The most prevalent mycotoxins found in food commodities are aflatoxins and ochratoxins produced by Aspergillus species, ochratoxins and patulin produced by Penicillium, as well as fumonisins, deoxynivalenol, and zearalenone produced by Fusarium species. Worldwide, fumonisins, patulin, aflatoxins, and ochratoxins, among others, are responsible for numerous acute and chronic diseases in people and domestic animals. In food commodities, mycotoxins have been quantified and detected using various analytical methods. Besides, mycotoxins occurrence in food commodities were decontaminated through many potential approaches, such as physical, chemical, and biological methods. This review summarizes the findings of 30 years of research into mycotoxins in major commercial food crops including wheat, maize, sorghum, pearl millet, peanut, oat, pulses, barley, oilseeds, rice, and fruits and fruit juices. We also discuss the detection methods of major mycotoxins, available decontamination strategies along with their disadvantages and knowledge gaps. It is anticipated that data from meticulous studies on mycotoxins in food commodities will help in the development of safer food and in setting priorities for future research.

Ochratoxin (OTA) is widely present in a wide range of foods and feeds, causing adverse effects on animals and humans. This study aims to explore the toxicokinetics of OTA-contaminated materials on the Dezhou male donkey. Donkeys received a single orally dose of 2500 μg OTA/kg BW, obtained from Aspergillus ochraceus culture material. The concentrations of OTA in plasma collected at 0, 5, 10, 15, 20, 30, 45 min, and at 1, 1.5, 2, 3, 6, 9, 12, 24, 48, 72, 96 and 120 h were detected by HPLC. OTA eliminated in urine and feces were quantified at 6-h intervals up to 24 h and then at 4-h intervals up to 120 h. The results suggested that the maximum concentration of OTA in plasma was observed at 12 h after administration, with a mean value of 10.34 μg/mL. The total excretion in both urine and feces was about 10% of the intake until 120 h. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Bread is the staple food in many parts of the world. Like other foods, bread can contain mycotoxins resulting from microbial development throughout the supply chain (from field to table). In this study, baguette-style bread from small artisanal bakeries (direct) and supermarkets (par-baked loaves made by large companies) in Castile and Leon (Spain) was analyzed. Both white and whole-grain breads were collected from all retail outlets. The mycotoxins analyzed included deoxynivalenol (DON), ochratoxin (OTA), and aflatoxin B1 and B2 (AFB1, AFB2). All of the bread samples studied had mycotoxin levels below the maximum limits established by legislation. The presence of DON was higher than that of OTA, and AFB1 and AFB2 could not be quantified. Industrial breads had higher levels of DON and OTA (only in the whole-grain breads) compared to artisanal breads. However, no significant differences were found between white and industrial breads beyond those mentioned above. These results demonstrate that the established control chains ensure low mycotoxin content in bread of this type.

Ochratoxins are fungal secondary metabolites produced during storage by fungus of the genera Aspergillus, mainly in tropical and warmer regions and by Penicillium verrucosum, in temperate and colder areas. The most commonly occurring and most toxic member is ochratoxin A (OTA). OTA has multiple toxicity, being nephrotoxic, genotoxic and immunotoxic. According to the Commission Recommendation no. 576/2006 concerning the presence of OTA in products intended for animal feeding, the maximum level admitted for OTA in complementary and complete feeding stuffs for pigs is 0.05ppm. However, these guidance values are only a recommendation, and the establishment of a legal regulation needs additional toxicological data issued from farm animal experiments. The aim of the present paper was to investigate the effect of the EU recommended OTA maximal tolerable feed concentration (0.05 mg/kg) on the spleen of weaned pigs.

Research background. Inulinases are used for fructooligosaccharide production and they are of interest for both scientific community and industry. Black aspergilli represent a diverse group of species that has use for enzyme production, in particular some species are known as potent inulinase producers. Finding new potential producers from the environment is as important as improving the production with known strains. Safe use of enzymes produced by aspergilli in food industry is placed ahead of their benefit for inulinase production. Experimental approach. Here we show a specific approach to finding/screening of newly isolated fungal inulinase producers that combines a newly developed screening method and an equally important assessment of the toxigenic potential of the fungus. In this study 39 black aspergilli collected from different substrates in Serbia were identified and assessed for inulinase production. Results and conclusions. The most common species were Aspergillus tubingensis (51.2%), followed by A. niger (23.1%), A. welwitschiae (23.1%) and A. uvarum (2.6%). The isolates for inulinase production were selected using a cheap and easy, fast and non-hazardous alternative inulinase screening test developed in this work. Enzymatic activity of selected inulinase-producing strains was confirmed spectrophotometrically. Since some A. niger and A. welwitschiae strains are able to produce mycotoxins ochratoxin A (OTA) and fumonisins (FB), the toxigenic potential of selected inulinase producers was assessed analytically and genetically. Fungal enzyme producer can be considered safe for use in food industry only after comparing the results of both approaches for investigating toxic potential, the direct presence of mycotoxins in the enzyme preparation (analytically) and the presence of mycotoxin gene clusters (genetically). In some strains the absence of OTA and FB production capability was molecularly confirmed by the absence of complete or critical parts of biosynthetic gene clusters, respectively. The two best inulinase producers and mycotoxin non-producers (without mycotoxin production capability as additional safety) were selected as potential candidates for further development of enzyme production. Novelty and scientific contribution. The presented innovative approach for the selection of potential fungal enzyme producer shows that only non-toxigenic fungi could be considered as useful in food industry. Although this study was done on local isolates, the approach is applicable globally.

Mycotoxins are toxic secondary metabolites produced by certain genera of fungi including but not limited to Fusarium, Aspergillus, and Penicillium. Their persistence in agricultural commodities poses a significant food safety issue owing to their carcinogenic, teratogenic, and immunosuppressive effects. Due to their inherent stability, mycotoxin levels in contaminated food often exceed the prescribed regulatory thresholds posing a risk to both humans and livestock. Although physical and chemical methods have been applied to remove mycotoxins, these approaches may reduce the nutrient quality and organoleptic properties of food. Microbial transformation of mycotoxins is a promising alternative for mycotoxin detoxification as it is more specific and environmentally friendly compared to physical/chemical methods. Here we review the biological detoxification of the major mycotoxins with a focus on microbial enzymes. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Simple Summary: Environmental stressors, such as mycotoxins and enteropathogenic bacteria, can exert a detrimental effect on the gastrointestinal tract of the swine on contaminated corn-based feed which leads to the development of retarded growth; weight loss, thus, contributes greatly to lowered meat productivity. Plant-derived compounds such as flavonoid-type chrysin and luteolin were investigated in porcine enterocytes to evaluate their beneficial properties in gut damage. Toxic effects of ochratoxin A mycotoxin and bacterial outer membrane component, lipopolysaccharide could not be alleviated by the applied flavonoids even in combinations. However, luteolin and chrysin could prevent the excessive inflammatory responses by lowering cytokines' production elicited by mycotoxin and bacterial toxin. Due to their antioxidant properties, these flavonoids were effective in compensating redox homeostasis tipped by combined exposure of ochratoxin A and inflammatory lipopolysaccharide. The porcine intestinal epithelial cell model applied by us was proven to be suitable for studying the harmful effects of the toxins and at the same time to evaluate the protective effects of flavonoids without living animal sacrifices. This study also suggests that mycotoxin-weakened intestinal function might result in the development of enteropathogen-caused secondary infections. Ochratoxin A (OTA) and lipopolysaccharide (LPS) intake can cause gastrointestinal disorders. Polyphenolic chrysin (CHR) and luteolin (LUT) display anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties. Porcine intestinal epithelial (jejunal) IPEC-J2 cells were treated with OTA (1 µM, 5 µM and 20 µM), E. coli LPS (10 µg/mL), CHR (1 µM) and LUT (8.7 µM) alone and in their combinations. Cell viabilities (MTS assay) and extracellular (EC) hydrogen-peroxide (H2O2) production (Amplex red method) were evaluated. Intracellular (IC) reactive oxygen species (ROS) were assessed using a 2′-7′dichlorodihydrofluorescein diacetate (DCFH-DA) procedure. ELISA assay was used to evaluate IL-6 and IL-8 secretion. OTA decreased cell viabilities (p < 0.001) which could not be alleviated by LUT or CHR (p > 0.05); however, EC H2O2 production was successfully suppressed by LUT in IPEC-J2 cells (p < 0.001). OTA with LPS elevated the IC ROS which was counteracted by CHR and LUT (p < 0.001). IL-6 and IL-8 secretion was elevated by LPS + OTA (p < 0.001) which could be inhibited by LUT (p < 0.01 for IL-6; p < 0.001 for IL-8). Based on our results, CHR and LUT exerted beneficial effects on IC ROS levels and on cytokine secretion (LUT) in vitro; thus, they might be used as dietary and feed supplements to avoid OTA- and LPS-related health risks. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Mycotoxins are metabolites produced by fungi growing in food or feed, which can produce toxic effects and seriously threaten the health of humans and animals. Mycotoxins are commonly found in food and feed, and are of significant concern due to their hepatotoxicity, nephrotoxicity, carcinogenicity, mutagenicity, and ability to damage the immune and reproductive systems. Traditional physical and chemical detoxification methods to treat mycotoxins in food and feed products have limitations, such as loss of nutrients, reagent residues, and secondary pollution to the environment. Thus, there is an urgent need for new detoxification methods to effectively control mycotoxins and treat mycotoxin pollution. In recent years, microbial detoxification technology has been widely used for the degradation of mycotoxins in food and feed because this approach offers the potential for treatment with high efficiency, low toxicity, and strong specificity, without damage to nutrients. This article reviews the application of microbial detoxification technology for removal of common mycotoxins such as Aflatoxin, Ochratoxin, Zearalenone, Deoxynivalenol, and Fumonisins, and discusses the development trend of this important technology. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Research background. Inulinases are used for fructooligosaccharide production and they are of interest for both scientific community and industry. Black aspergilli represent a diverse group of species that has use for enzyme production, in particular some species are known as potent inulinase producers. Finding new potential producers from the environment is as important as improving the production with known strains. Safe use of enzymes produced by aspergilli in food industry is placed ahead of their benefit for inulinase production. Experimental approach. Here we show a specific approach to finding/screening of newly isolated fungal inulinase producers that combines a newly developed screening method and an equally important assessment of the toxigenic potential of the fungus. In this study 39 black aspergilli collected from different substrates in Serbia were identified and assessed for inulinase production. Results and conclusions. The most common species were Aspergillus tubingensis (51.2 %), followed by A. niger (23.1 %), A. welwitschiae (23.1 %) and A. uvarum (2.6 %). The isolates for inulinase production were selected using a cheap and easy, fast and non-hazardous alternative inulinase screening test developed in this work. Enzymatic activity of selected inulinase-producing strains was confirmed spectrophotometrically. Since some A. niger and A. welwitschiae strains are able to produce mycotoxins ochratoxin A (OTA) and fumonisins (FB), the toxigenic potential of selected inulinase producers was assessed analytically and genetically. Fungal enzyme producer can be considered safe for use in food industry only after comparing the results of both approaches for investigating toxic potential, the direct presence of mycotoxins in the enzyme preparation (analytically) and the presence of mycotoxin gene clusters (genetically). In some strains the absence of OTA and FB production capability was molecularly confirmed by the absence of complete or critical parts of biosynthetic gene clusters, respectively. The two best inulinase producers and mycotoxin non-producers (without mycotoxin production capability as additional safety) were selected as potential candidates for further development of enzyme production. Novelty and scientific contribution. The presented innovative approach for the selection of potential fungal enzyme producer shows that only non-toxigenic fungi could be considered as useful in food industry. Although this study was done on local isolates, the approach is applicable globally. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Mycotoxins are toxic secondary metabolites produced by certain genera of fungi including but not limited to Fusarium, Aspergillus, and Penicillium. Their persistence in agricultural commodities poses a significant food safety issue owing to their carcinogenic, teratogenic, and immunosuppressive effects. Due to their inherent stability, mycotoxin levels in contaminated food often exceed the prescribed regulatory thresholds posing a risk to both humans and livestock. Although physical and chemical methods have been applied to remove mycotoxins, these approaches may reduce the nutrient quality and organoleptic properties of food. Microbial transformation of mycotoxins is a promising alternative for mycotoxin detoxification as it is more specific and environmentally friendly compared to physical/chemical methods. Here we review the biological detoxification of the major mycotoxins with a focus on microbial enzymes.

Aspergillus fungi produce mycotoxins that are detrimental to human and animal health. Two sections of aspergilli are of particular importance to cereal food crops such as corn and barley. Aspergillus section Flavi species like A. flavus and A. parasiticus produce aflatoxins, while section Circumdati species like A. ochraceus and A. sclerotiorum produce ochratoxin A. Mitigating these toxins in food and feed is a critical and ongoing worldwide effort. We have previously investigated biosynthetic gene clusters in Aspergillus flavus that are linked to fungal virulence in corn. We found that one such cluster, asa, is responsible for the production of aspergillic acid, an iron-binding, hydroxamic acid-containing pyrazinone metabolite. Furthermore, we found that the asa gene cluster is present in many other aflatoxin- and ochratoxin-producing aspergilli. The core gene in the asa cluster encodes the small nonribosomal peptide synthetase-like (NRPS-like) protein AsaC. We have swapped the asaC ortholog from A. sclerotiorum into A. flavus, replacing its native copy, and have also cloned both asaC orthologs into Saccharomyces cerevisiae. We show that AsaC orthologs in section Flavi and section Circumdati, while only containing adenylation-thiolation-reductase (ATR) domains, can selectively biosynthesize distinct pyrazinone natural products: deoxyaspergillic acid and flavacol, respectively. Because pyrazinone natural products and the gene clusters responsible for their production are implicated in a variety of important microbe-host interactions, uncovering the function and selectivity of the enzymes involved could lead to strategies that ultimately benefit human health.

Ochratoxigenic fungal species are a major cause of various infections in plants and posed serious threat to their consumers, including humans and animals. The objective of this study was to examine the in vitro efficacy of different concentrations of leaves methanolic extract of Amaranthus viridis L. against target pathogenic ochratoxin producing fungal species (Trichoderma viride Pers., Trichoderma harzianum Rifai. and Cladosporium cladosporioides (Fresen.) G.A. de Vries). For this purpose, different concentrations viz. 2%, 4%, 6%, 8% and 10% of leaf methanolic extract was prepared and tested for their antifungal potential in a completely randomized design (CRD). Results revealed that a 10%concentration of A. viridis significantly suppressed the growth of all the tested fungi. The phytochemical analysis of A. viridis depicts the presence of glycosides, alkaloids, saponins, tannins and coumarins. Bioassay-guided fractionation was executed to check the antifungal activity of various fractions in vitro against the test ochratoxin producing fungi. The ethyl acetate fraction showed the highest antifungal activity among all other fractions. GC-MS (Gas chromatography- mass spectroscopy) analysis of ethyl acetate fraction revealed the presence of twelve compounds viz. 1,2,3-propanetriol monoacetate; 푛-decanoic acid; 1-hexadecene; dodecanoic acid; 5,6,7,7a-tetrahydro-4,4,7a-trimethyl-[R]; tetradecanoic acid, 2-pentadecanone; 6,10,14-trimethyl-; phenol,2-methyl-5-[1-methylethyl]-; 푛-hxadecanoic acid; 2[4H]-benzofuranone; phytol; 9,12-octadecadienoic acid and heptacosane. The presence of these compounds might be responsible for the antifungal potential of A. viridis and it can be concluded that the methanolic leaf extract of the tested plant proved to be beneficial for inhibiting the growth of test ochratoxigenic fungi. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Ochratoxin A (OTA) is a toxic metabolite produced by Aspergillus and Penicillium fungi commonly found in raw plant sources and other feeds. This review comprises an extensive evaluation of the origin and proprieties of OTA, toxicokinetics, biotransformation, and toxicodynamics of ochratoxins. In in vitro and in vivo studies, the compatibility of OTA with oxidative stress is observed through the production of free radicals, resulting in genotoxicity and carcinogenicity. The OTA leads to nephrotoxicity as the chief target organ is the kidney. Other OTA excretion and absorption rates are observed, and the routes of elimination include faeces, urine, and breast milk. The alternations in the Phe moiety of OTA are the precursor for the amino acid alternation, bringing about Phe-hydroxylase and Phe-tRNA synthase, resulting in the complete dysfunction of cellular metabolism. Biodetoxification using specific microorganisms decreased the DNA damage, lipid peroxidation, and cytotoxicity. This review addressed the ability of antioxidants and the dietary components as prophylactic measures to encounter toxicity and demonstrated their capability to counteract the chronic exposure through supplementation as feed additives. [Display omitted] • Mycotoxin, Ochratoxin A (OTA) broadly circulated in agro-by products. • The OTA has a synergistic consequence with other co-occurring mycotoxins. • The OTA leading to critical illness in the host. • The biochemical proprieties of OTA and existing the toxicokinetics were reviewed. • Implication of antioxidants in feeds and the biodetoxification process were highlighted. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Goat milk is a type of milk widely used either directly or by processing milk for various dairy products. This study aimed to identify or reduce fungal toxins using lactic acid bacteria and assess their effects on goat milk. Lactic acid bacteria (Lactobacillus acidophilus) were used to remove mycotoxins, aflatoxin M1, aflatoxin B1, and ochratoxin A from goat milk that had been infected with these toxins. The removal process depends on linking mycotoxins to the bacterial cell wall by adsorption of mycotoxins on the bacterial cell wall. Milk samples from purchased dairy goats were used on a diet with quantities of pre-prepared aflatoxins. Produced aflatoxins originated from the development of Aspergillus parasiticus cultivated on potato medium; the spore suspension was collected after the incubation process. Lactobacillus acidophilus was then activation and isolated in 30 mL of MRS liquid environment at 37 °C for 24 hours under anaerobic conditions, and the dead bacteria were separated from the living bacteria by centrifugation of bacterial culture and were suspended (separately) in test tubes containing 5 mL of sterile milk contaminated with mycotoxins. The tubes were then shaken for two minutes. Determination of toxins aflatoxin M1 and B1 and ochratoxin A in milk samples were determined by ELISA according to the fermentation periods of 2, 6, 12, 24, and 48 hours, and temperatures of 4, 25, and 37 °C, and at the following different pH values: 5, 5.5, 6, 6.5, 7, and 7.5, which were conditions for both, dead and live bacteria. The results revealed that the longer the fermentation period, the greater the capacity of Lactobacillus acidophilus to detoxify goat milk, with removal rates of aflatoxin M1, aflatoxin B1, and ochratoxin A reaching 11.63, 43.33, and 1.98% after 2 hours, and 80.23, 65.33, and 5.87% after 48 hours, respectively. In contrast, the effects of living bacteria were (9.57, 33.83, and 1.27%) after 2 hours, (78.8, 68.03, and 5.53%) after 48 hours for aflatoxin M1, aflatoxin B1, and ochratoxin A, respectively. When talking about the effect of temperature on the ability of Lactobacillus acidophilus to detoxify, high temperatures have increased detoxification, and the result for dead bacteria was 28.5, 51.17, and 1.19% when fermentation temperature 4°C, while the removal rate reached 83.53, 74.8, and 5.33% when fermentation temperature was 37 °C, for both aflatoxin M1, aflatoxin B1, and ochratoxin A respectively, because of adsorption mycotoxins on the bacterial cell wall. The effect of temperature on living bacteria condition was similar to the state of dead bacteria, where detoxification rises with high temperatures, with the ratios of 32.8, 47.33, and 3.2%, and 75, 70.83, and 5.07% for both 4 and 37 °C, respectively, for aflatoxin M1, aflatoxin B1, and ochratoxin A. pH levels influenced the susceptibility of Lactobacillus acidophilus to remove toxins such as mycotoxins, meaning, the lower the pH value the greater toxin removal rate and both kinds of dead and live bacteria status. At pH 5, the highest lactic acid bacteria detoxification rate for aflatoxin B1, ochratoxin A, and aflatoxin M1 was 71.63, 70.47, and 67.1%, respectively, and for dead bacteria 71.63, 70.47, and 67.1%. This study concludes that Lactobacillus acidophilus can eliminate the mycotoxins in goat's milk by adsorption on the bacterial cell wall. Its removal capacity depends on the temperature, time spent incubating, and pH value. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: The presence of toxicogenic fungi and the production of ochratoxin in flour are dangerous to human health. Therefore, identification of these fungi by molecular and precise methods is essential. The aim of this study was molecular identification of fungal species and investigation of ochratoxin A contamination in flours used in bakeries in Hamadan Methods: In this descriptive-analytical study, 60 flour samples were collected from bakeries in Hamadan. At first, fungi were identified using phenotypic methods such as slide culture. Then, the genus and species of fungi were confirmed by PCR and sequencing of PCR products. ELISA method was used to detect ochratoxin A. Data were analyzed with GraphPad software version 6. Results: Of the 60 samples, 28 flour samples (46.66%) were free of fungal contamination and 32 flour samples (53.33%) were over fungal contamination (104 colonies/gr). Aspergillus and penicillium were the most abundant in samples. The prevalence of fungi in flour of Lavash bread, Sangak Bread, Barbari bread, Taftoon bread (Handmade), Taftoon bread (Machinal made), Stokbrood bread and Loaf bread were 50%, 46%, 35%, 31%, 26%, 18% and 11%, respectively. However, the highest levels of ochratoxin A were reported in flour of Lavash bread (3.98 ppb) and the lowest in Loaf bread (0.66 ppb). There was also a significant relationship between the fungal species and the amount of ochratoxin A production in flour of beards. Conclusion: While phenotypic and genotypic methods did not show the same sensitivity, the presence of ochratoxin in the studied flours indicated the necessity of modification in wheat storage and bakery flours.

This study aimed to investigate the efficacy of gas-phase surface discharge plasma in degrading ochratoxin A (OTA) and assess the impact on the quality of raisins. The plasma discharge voltage was found to significantly influence the degradation rate, with residual percentages of 28.69% and 16.38% after 10 min of treatment with 15 and 18 kV plasma, respectively. No ochratoxin was detected after 10 min of 21 kV plasma treatment. The degradation rate of OTA in raisins slowed down, and the complete degradation took 15 min. Liquid chromatography–tandem mass spectrometry/mass spectrometry analysis revealed that OTA was degraded into nontoxic phenylalanine. Importantly, plasma treatment did not significantly affect the moisture, titratable acidity, total sugar, ascorbic acid, color parameters, or aroma of raisins (P ≥ 0.05). Therefore, gas-phase surface discharge plasma treatment proved effective in degrading OTA in raisins while preserving their quality. • Gas-phase surface discharge plasma effectively degrades ochratoxin A in raisins. • Plasma treatment fully degrades 50 μg/mL ochratoxin A within 10 min. • Plasma treatment degrades ochratoxin A into non-toxic phenylalanine. • Plasma treatment does not significantly impact raisin quality. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Capsicum is a common spice used in food flavouring. However, they are prone to mycotoxin contamination. Mycotoxins are natural toxins produced by filamentous fungi and can pose serious risks to human health. Fungal contamination was assessed in 130 randomly collected samples following ISO 21527–2:2008 standards. Results revealed that 84.6% of the samples exceeded the acceptable fungal count limit (102 CFU/g) according to Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) standards (GSO1016:2015). The predominant fungal isolates were Aspergillus (51.1%), notably Aspergillus flavus (38.8%) and Aspergillus niger (37.7%). Molecular characterization focused on crucial genes associated with aflatoxin (AF) and ochratoxin (OT) biosynthesis, 14.4% of the isolates exhibited all targeted AF genes. The mycotoxin analysis, conducted on 34.6% of samples via liquid chromatography-mass spectrometry (LC-MS), detected AFB1 in 28.8% (0.2–13.8 μg/kg) and OTA in 35.5% (6.87–59.00 μg/kg) of the tested samples. This study demonstrates the need of implementing rules governing the methods of storing, shipping, and packing spices in Saudi Arabia, which may help to minimizes the prevalence of toxigenic fungus and mycotoxins. This was the first study in KSA that focused on Aspergillus in Capsicum products. • Fungus contaminations were revealed in 84.6 % of the tested powder capsicum samples. • Aspergillus spp. is the most prevalent genus in the tested samples. • Mycotoxin biosynthesis genes were detected in several Aspergillus isolates. • Sample packaging has no effect on fungal contamination in this study. • AFB1 and OTA were found in 28.8 and 35.5% of the samples analyzed, respectively. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Evidence of the impact of exposure to multiple mycotoxins and environment enteric dysfunction (EED) on child growth is limited. Using data from a birth cohort study, the objectives of this study were to (a) quantify exposure to multiple mycotoxins (serum aflatoxin [AFB1] and ochratoxin A [OTA], urinary fumonisin [UFB1] and deoxynivalenol [DON]), as well EED (lactulose:mannitol [L:M] ratio); (b) examine the potential combined effects of multiple mycotoxin exposure and EED on growth. Multivariate regressions were used to identify associations between growth measurements (length, weight, anthropometric z‐scores, stunting and underweight) at 24–26 months of age and exposure to mycotoxins and EED at 18–22 months (n = 699). Prevalence of AFB1, DON, OTA and UFB1 exposure ranged from 85% to 100%; average L:M ratio was 0.29 ± 0.53. In individual mycotoxin models, AFB1 exposure was negatively associated with weight, WAZ, increased odds of stunting (odds ratio [OR]: 1.28, 95% confidence interval [CI]: 1.08, 1.52; p = 0.004) and underweight (OR: 1.18, 95% CI: 1.00, 1.38; p = 0.046). Irrespective of other mycotoxin exposure and presence of EED, AFB1 was negatively associated with length, weight, head circumference, LAZ and WAZ, and with increased odds of stunting and underweight, UFB1 was associated with increased odds of underweight, and DON was negatively associated with head circumference. EED was associated with the impaired length and weight. These findings suggest that certain mycotoxins and EED may have independent impacts on different facets of growth and that aflatoxin dominates such impacts. Thus, programs reducing exposure to mycotoxin and EED through multi‐sectoral nutrition‐sensitive interventions have the potential to improve child growth. Key messages: Mycotoxin exposure was highly prevalent in children aged 18–22 months. Various mycotoxins and EED contribute independently to different manifestations of poor child growthAFB1 was negatively associated with length, weight, head circumference, LAZ, as well as WAZ, and associated with increased odds of stunting and underweight. UFB1 was also associated with increased odds of underweight. DON was negatively associated with head circumference. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract Evidence of the impact of exposure to multiple mycotoxins and environment enteric dysfunction (EED) on child growth is limited. Using data from a birth cohort study, the objectives of this study were to (a) quantify exposure to multiple mycotoxins (serum aflatoxin [AFB1] and ochratoxin A [OTA], urinary fumonisin [UFB1] and deoxynivalenol [DON]), as well EED (lactulose:mannitol [L:M] ratio); (b) examine the potential combined effects of multiple mycotoxin exposure and EED on growth. Multivariate regressions were used to identify associations between growth measurements (length, weight, anthropometric z‐scores, stunting and underweight) at 24–26 months of age and exposure to mycotoxins and EED at 18–22 months (n = 699). Prevalence of AFB1, DON, OTA and UFB1 exposure ranged from 85% to 100%; average L:M ratio was 0.29 ± 0.53. In individual mycotoxin models, AFB1 exposure was negatively associated with weight, WAZ, increased odds of stunting (odds ratio [OR]: 1.28, 95% confidence interval [CI]: 1.08, 1.52; p = 0.004) and underweight (OR: 1.18, 95% CI: 1.00, 1.38; p = 0.046). Irrespective of other mycotoxin exposure and presence of EED, AFB1 was negatively associated with length, weight, head circumference, LAZ and WAZ, and with increased odds of stunting and underweight, UFB1 was associated with increased odds of underweight, and DON was negatively associated with head circumference. EED was associated with the impaired length and weight. These findings suggest that certain mycotoxins and EED may have independent impacts on different facets of growth and that aflatoxin dominates such impacts. Thus, programs reducing exposure to mycotoxin and EED through multi‐sectoral nutrition‐sensitive interventions have the potential to improve child growth.

'Kati' purchased from local producers in Akoko, Ondo State, Nigeria and 'Kati' produced from the laboratory were microbiologically examined for presence of microorganisms and mycotoxins. The microbial counts at the different stages of production are significantly different (p > 0.05) with values ranging from 1.00 × 105 to 1.16× 106 CFU/mL. Most predominated bacteria in commercial 'Kati' were Lactococcus lactis Lactobacillus plantarum and Lactobacillus brevis. Saccharomyces cerevisiae have the highest occurrence value of 32.6% and 55.6% in commercial 'Kati' and 'Kati produced in the laboratory. There were presence of aflatoxin B1 (18.52 μg/g), aflatoxin B2 (16.02 μg/g), aflatoxin G1 (17.84 μg/g), fumonisin B1 (4.01 μg/g) and ochratoxin A1 (0.93 μg/g) in sorghum used for commercial 'Kati' production. Likewise, presence of aflatoxin B1 (16.78μg/g), aflatoxin B2 (13.94 μg/g), aflatoxin G1 (14.89 μg/g), and aflatoxin G2 (0.04 μg/g) in sorghum used for 'Kati' in the laboratory. The presence of mycotoxin residues on the starting material (sorghum) indicated that, 'Kati' and other fermented foods from cereals need to be produced under hygienic conditions. It is therefore, imperative to take into consideration, high level of hygiene with the principle of Hazard Analysis and Critical Control Point (HACCP) at different stages of production in order to reduce microbial contamination and toxins associated with fermented foods. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Aflatoxin B1 (AFB1) and ochratoxin A (OTA), which are toxic metabolites of ubiquitously occurring molds, show diverse toxicological effects such as hepatotoxicity, genotoxicity, and immunotoxicity in human and animals. Despite poultry show sensitivity to AFB1 and OTA, the mechanism of these mycotoxins in chickens has not been fully investigated. Here, we aimed to elucidate the molecular mechanism induced by AFB1 and/or OTA in chicken hepatic cells using transcriptomic analysis. Aflatoxin B1 and OTA induced cytotoxic effects in a dose-dependent manner at 48 h after exposure. Furthermore, correlation effect indicated an antagonism between the 2 toxins. The mRNA sequencing of AFB1-treated or OTA-treated chicken hepatocarcinoma and functional analysis revealed the pathways that were commonly regulated by both mycotoxins, especially PPAR signaling, focal adhesion, and MAPK signaling. Based on these findings, a possible hypothesis is that AFB1 and OTA have similar toxic mechanisms and compete for some steps in the chicken liver, and it is expected that the mycotoxins would have antagonistic effects. In addition, genes identified through transcriptome analysis provide candidates for further study of AFB1 and OTA toxicity and targets for efforts to improve the health of chickens exposed to mycotoxins.

The purpose of the study is to evaluate the contamination with mycotoxins of the corn cultures in the county of Bacau, in correlation with the geographical and agro-climatic conditions of this area. Romania is one of the largest corn producers from the European Union and harvested almost 10746.4 thousand of tons in 2016, 14326.1 thousand of tons in 2017, 18353 thousand of tons in 2018, 16990 thousand of tons in 2019, over 1.5 million tons going into exports in countries both from the EU and outside. The main mycotoxins identified in the corn cultures in the county of Bacau are: Aflatoxins, Deoxynivalenol, Zearalenone, Toxin T2 and HT2, Fumonisins. The study aimed to determine the quantity of ochratoxin and zearalenone from corn kernels harvested in the county of Bacau. The identified mycotoxins do not exceed the maximum limits according to Reg. (CE) 1881/2006, which regulates the maximum limits for certain contaminants in food products.

Forty-three species and variety belonging to 15 genera were collected from 30 strawberry fruit samples on Glucose-Czapek’s agar medium. Among them, Aspergillus flavus, Aspergillus niger and Penicillium citrinum were the most frequent species recovered from 53.3%, 70.0% and 50.0% of the samples, respectively. According to the ITS rDNA sequence, we confirmed the morphological identification result. Moreover, aflatoxin biosynthesis gene omt-A was detected in A. flavus, while Aopks gene was found in A. niger. Interestingly, we could not detect any aflatoxin or ochratoxin biosynthesis genes in the P. citrinum strain. The concentration of detected aflatoxin was 3.5 ppb produced by A. flavus, while A. niger gave 4.1 ppb as ochratoxin. A. flavus was the most pectinase producer among the selected strains, and the highest amount was obtained at 30°C after 6 days of incubation with initial medium pH 8.

Mycotoxins are toxic and carcinogenic metabolites produced by groups of filamentous fungi that colonize food crops. Aflatoxin B1 (AFB1), ochratoxin A (OTA) and fumonisin B1 (FB1) are among the most relevant agricultural mycotoxins, as they can induce various toxic processes in humans and animals. To detect AFB1, OTA and FB1 in the most varied matrices, chromatographic and immunological methods are primarily used; however, these techniques are time-consuming and expensive. In this study, we demonstrate that unitary alphatoxin nanopore can be used to detect and differentiate these mycotoxins in aqueous solution. The presence of AFB1, OTA or FB1 inside the nanopore induces reversible blockage of the ionic current flowing through the nanopore, with distinct characteristics of blockage that are unique to each of the three toxins. The process of discrimination is based on the residual current ratio calculation and analysis of the residence time of each mycotoxin inside the unitary nanopore. Using a single alphatoxin nanopore, the mycotoxins could be detected at the nanomolar level, indicating that alphatoxin nanopore is a promising molecular tool for discriminatory analysis of mycotoxins in aqueous solution.