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Aflatoxins

Aflatoxins
Aflatoxin Production
  • Secondary metabolite produced by Aspergillus flavus and Aspergillus parasiticus fungal species (common worldwide)
  • Require hot, humid conditions ( > 85°F, > 85% relative humidity)
  • Improper storage of grains, corn, and nuts
  • Turkey X disease - ground nuts
Conidiophores characteristic of Aspergillus species.

(Journal of Food Protection, Vol. 58, December 1995)

Aspergillus flavus on corn.

Aspergillus flavus on corn.

Structure of four major aflatoxins. Overview od biotransformational pathways for aflatoxin B1. Structures of aflatoxin B1 primary metabolites.
 

© 2005 Center for Environmental Health