Aflatoxins are a group of polyketide metabolites produced
mainly by strains of the fungus Aspergillus flavus and the
closely related species A. parasiticus. The most biologically
active aflatoxin is B1; it is considered the most potent
naturally occurring carcinogen known.
농업용
Aflatoxin refers to a group of highly toxic polynuclear moulds (mycotoxins.) They are designated as B1,B2,G1,G2,M1and M2, and are produced chiefly by fungus Aspergillusflavus, which is a natural contaminant of fruits, vegetables and cereal grains. Aflatoxins are toxic to many animals including fish and birds. The B2and G1 strains are carcinogens.
Aflatoxins fluoresce strongly under UV light. They
are soluble in methanol, acetone and chloroform, but
only slightly soluble in water and hydrocarbon solvents.
Prevention of mould growth is the most effective
protection against aflatoxins. Removal or inactivation is
possible by physical and chemical means (solvent
refining or hand picking). FDA (Food and Drug
Administration) does not allow any aflatoxin content in
foods or feeds, although its presence up to 20 ppb does
not attract penalty.
신진 대사
Under optimum conditions, aflatoxin can be produced
by A. flavus within 24 to 36 hours; a significant amount
can be produced in a few days. Increases in aflatoxins
of 200 to more than 2,000 parts per billion (ppb) have
been reported in three days when recently harvested field
corn was stored at high moisture levels. Aflatoxins may
increase in truckloads of contaminated corn at a rate of up
to 6% per hour.
