What does aflatoxin mean?
Aflatoxin is a type of toxic substance produced by certain species of Aspergillus mold. These toxins can contaminate food, especially nuts and grains, and are known to cause liver damage and other health problems in humans and animals. Aflatoxin is a significant concern in food safety, particularly in regions where food storage and handling practices are inadequate. The presence of aflatoxin in food can be detected through laboratory testing, and measures can be taken to prevent contamination, such as proper storage and handling of food. Aflatoxin is a serious health risk, and its presence in food can have significant consequences for human health. The effects of aflatoxin exposure can be severe, including liver damage, cancer, and even death. As a result, it is essential to take steps to prevent aflatoxin contamination and to detect its presence in food.
nounAflatoxin is a type of toxic substance produced by certain species of Aspergillus mold, particularly Aspergillus flavus. These toxins can contaminate food, especially nuts and grains, and are known to cause liver damage and other health problems in humans and animals.
- 1. A type of toxic substance produced by certain species of Aspergillus mold.
"The aflatoxin levels in the peanut butter were found to be above the acceptable limit, prompting a recall of the product."
"The aflatoxin levels in the peanut butter were found to be above the acceptable limit, prompting a recall of the product."
Reviewed by Deb Chak, Editor. AI-assisted content curated by RJS Tech Solutions LLP.
Etymology of aflatoxin
The word 'aflatoxin' is derived from the genus name Aspergillus and the Greek word 'toxin', meaning poison. The term was first used in the 1960s to describe the toxic substances produced by Aspergillus flavus.
Usage notes
Aflatoxin is a formal term used in scientific and technical contexts to describe the toxic substances produced by Aspergillus mold. It is not commonly used in everyday conversation.