Understanding Mycotoxins: Food Safety and Your Wellbeing
Take a look in your pantry and pull out the following: Your grain-derived products like cereals, corn, wheat, rice, barley. Nuts and seeds like peanuts, almonds, and pistachios. Dried fruit, coffee, cacao, and spices like chili powder, paprika, and black pepper.
These are a few items where little compounds called mycotoxins could be lurking in our food supply. Understanding and identifying mycotoxins could be a secret ingredient to your health and longevity.
Mycotoxins are secondary metabolites produced by molds and fungi. They are toxic compounds that weaken the immune system and can pose health risks from acute poisoning to long-term, more serious effects like cancer or neurological disorders. They’re often found in nuts, grains, and other food products. While we might not be able to eliminate mycotoxins from the food supply, there are a few things you can do to minimize your exposure and reduce the risk of adverse health effects.
Mycotoxins impair the immune system, making us more susceptible to infections and diseases. The effect of mycotoxins depends on the type and the amount ingested, as well as the individual’s sensitivity and susceptibility. Mycotoxin exposure can express itself as acute toxicity, which happens when we ingest large amounts of mycotoxin-contaminated foods. Typically we experience symptoms like nausea, vomiting, abdominal pain, and diarrhea. However, prolonged exposure to low levels of mycotoxins is linked to chronic health conditions like liver damage, kidney dysfunction, immune suppression, reproductive disorders, and neurological impairments. Certain mycotoxins, such as aflatoxins, which can grow in crops like corn, peanuts, and tree nuts are classified as potent carcinogens with implications for liver cancer and other malignancies.
It’s important to understand that mycotoxins develop under specific conditions. The temperature, humidity, pH level, oxygen availability, and nutrient content influence mold growth and metabolism. When one of these environmental cues triggers a genetic activation, mycotoxins accumulate within fungal cells and are released into the surrounding environment.
Mycotoxins can contaminate various food products, particularly when stored improperly. Some common foods prone to mycotoxin contamination include:
- Grains: Cereals, corn, wheat, rice, barley, and their derived products. Purchase grains from reputable sources that follow proper quality control measures. Store in a cool, dry environment and use airtight containers to prevent moisture absorption. Inspect your grains before cooking for mold, discoloration, and abnormal odors. This buckwheat flour can be a great substitute, with many health benefits, for more traditional flours from the grocery store shelf.
- Nuts and Seeds: Peanuts, almonds, pistachios, and other nuts and seeds can harbor mycotoxins, particularly aflatoxins. Avoid nuts and seeds with visible mold, damage, or discoloration. Store in a cool, dry place and keep away from direct sunlight. You can also keep nuts in the refrigerator or freezer for long-term storage!
- Dried Fruits: Dried fruits such as raisins, figs, and prunes especially if dried under moist conditions. Opt for dried fruits that appear plump, firm, and mold-free. Avoid dried fruits that are moist or sticky – these may be more susceptible to mold. Store in airtight containers in a cool, dry place. Lastly, look at the ingredients list and avoid products containing sulfur dioxide.
- Spices: Certain spices like chili powder, paprika, and black pepper can be contaminated with mycotoxins from improper storage or processes. Store in airtight containers. Keep these in a cool, dry place. Always check the expiration dates and purchase spices from reputable sources.
- Coffee and Cocoa Beans: Coffee beans and cocoa beans are susceptible to mycotoxin contamination during cultivation, harvesting, and processing. Choose reputable producers known for their quality and hygiene standards. Store coffee and cocoa beans in airtight containers and discard them if you see signs of mold growth or notice any odors. We love Purity coffee and can’t recommend it enough.
Lastly, diversify your diet to reduce your risk of excessive exposure to any single mycotoxin.
