Praedicat CoMeta Product Update
March 2022
New Theme
Mycotoxins
- Mycotoxins are produced by fungi such as Aspergillus, Penicillium, and Fusarium that contaminate grains, cereals, dried fruits, nuts, and seeds. People can be exposed to mycotoxins by eating contaminated plant products or meat and dairy from animals that consumed contaminated feed. Mycotoxins may also be present in buildings. Acute mycotoxin poisoning can result in serious harm or death. Chronic exposure can cause cancer, lung damage, and immune deficiency. Mycotoxins are most prevalent in hot and humid climates and are likely to become more common with climate change. Several hundred different mycotoxins have been identified. Among the most observed are aflatoxin, ochratoxin, and zearalenone. This theme also includes mold, exposure to which can have adverse health effects beyond those associated with mycotoxins.
Litagion agents
- Aflatoxin B1. Aflatoxin B1 is a mycotoxin produced by several species of Aspergillus fungi. These fungi can contaminate crops such as hay, wheat, millet, sorghum, cassava, cannabis, rice, corn, peanuts, vegetable oils, and various spices, nuts, and seeds. The contamination can occur in the field, during harvest, or while stored, but is most common under hot and humid conditions. People can be exposed to aflatoxin by eating contaminated plant products or meat and dairy from animals that consumed contaminated feed. Agricultural workers may inhale aflatoxin during the handling and processing of contaminated crops and feeds.
- Ochratoxin A. Ochratoxin A is a mycotoxin produced by several species of Aspergillus and Penicillium that contaminate a wide variety of food products including cereals, coffee, dried fruit, and red wine. Contamination can occur in the field, during harvest, or while stored, but is most common under hot and humid conditions. People can be exposed to ochratoxin by eating contaminated plant products or meat and dairy from animals that consumed contaminated feed.
- Hexane. Hexane [CAS No. 110-54-3] is a solvent used in industrial processes and as an ingredient in a variety of consumer products. Hexane serves as a cleaning agent in printing, automotive repair, and shoe, textile, and furniture manufacturing. A major use of hexane is in the extraction of edible oils such as canola and soy from seeds and vegetables. Hexane can also be found in consumer products such as spray adhesives, contact cement, arts and craft paints, and stain removers.