Definition 
Aflatoxins are toxins produced by a mold that grows in nuts, seeds, and legumes.

Function  
Although aflatoxins are known to cause cancer in animals, the Federal Drug Administration (FDA) allows them at low levels because they are considered “unavoidable contaminants” of these foods.

The FDA believes the occasional consumption of small amounts of aflatoxin pose little risk over a lifetime. It is not practical to attempt to remove aflatoxin from food products in order to make them safer.

Food Sources  

The mold that produces aflatoxin may be found in the following foods:

 
• Peanuts and peanut butter  
• Tree nuts such as pecans  
• Corn  
• Wheat  
• Oil seeds such as cottonseed

Recommendations  

To help minimize risk, the FDA tests foods that may contain aflatoxin. Peanuts and peanut butter are some of the most rigorously tested products by FDA because they frequently contain aflatoxins and are widely consumed.

You can reduce aflatoxin intake by:

 
• Buying only major brands of nuts and nut butters  
• Discarding any nuts that look moldy, discolored or shriveled

Medical Encyclopedia

All ArmMed Media material is provided for information only and is neither advice nor a substitute for proper medical care. Consult a qualified healthcare professional who understands your particular history for individual concerns.