Mycotoxins are toxic secondary metabolites produced by fungus, also known as mold. These can cause diseases in humans and animals, which can also prove to be fatal. It is estimated that there are thousands of fungal species, out of which about 200 pose serious health risk to humans and animals.
Mycotoxins can enter the food chain as a result of fungal infection of crops, either by being eaten directly by humans or by being used as livestock feed. Foods that are susceptible to contamination by mycotoxins include Peanuts, Spices, Cereals, Maize, Pistachios, Animal fodder etc
