Mycotoxins from food-borne fungi

Abstract

1.A wide range of fungi have been isolated from foodstuffs, and their ability to produce aflatoxins and, in some instances, ochratoxin A, was determined. Specimens were obtained from households (including samples associated with illness), from retail stores, and from processing plants. Of 128 fungi, isolated from 74 food samples, and cultured on complex media and on shredded wheat, 16 were found to produce toxins. Alfatoxins were produced not only by Aspergillus flavus isolates but also by a Rhizopus sp. and an Aspergillus ochraceus. Six strains identified as Aspergillus flavus var. columnaris formed aflatoxin B 2 only. Ochratoxin A was produced by a Penicillium sp. as well as by A. ochraceus isolates.