Mycotoxins are toxic secondary metabolites produced by certain fungi, primarily molds, that can contaminate food crops both in the field and during storage. Secondary metabolites are organic compounds not directly involved in the normal growth, development, or reproduction of an organism. Common mycotoxins include aflatoxins, ochratoxins, fumonisins, and zearalenone. These toxins can pose significant health risks to humans and animals, even at low concentrations, with some being carcinogenic, mutagenic, or teratogenic. Carcinogenic means cancer-causing, mutagenic means ....
Log in to view the answer
