A mycotoxin is a toxic secondary metabolite produced by certain types of fungi, such as Aspergillus, Penicillium, and Fusarium. These fungi can grow on a variety of food and feed crops, including grains, nuts, spices, and dried fruits, under favorable environmental conditions such as temperature and humidity.
Mycotoxins can be harmful to human and animal health, causing a range of acute and chronic illnesses, including cancer, immune suppression, neurotoxicity, and reproductive disorders. Some examples of mycotoxins include aflatoxins, ochratoxin A, fumonisins, and deoxynivalenol (DON).
