Human Exposure to Aflatoxins

Aflatoxins are exceptionally hazardous chemical substances produced by fungal (mould) growth on many food raw materials, foodstuffs and fodder. This report evaluates the current global situation of aflatoxin contamination of foods and dietary intakes, including data at port-of-entry.

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Aflatoxins are exceptionally hazardous chemical substances produced by fungal (mould) growth on many food raw materials, foodstuffs and fodder. Th ese substances are toxic to humans and animals at relatively low levels and are potent liver carcinogens. They are widely distributed in nature, especially in tropical countries with high temperature and humidity. This report evaluates the current global situation of aflatoxin contamination of foods and dietary intakes, including data at port-of-entry. Human exposure to aflatoxins as measured by various methods is reviewed and related to the results from epidemiological studies, showing that this disease is still of public importance.