Mold and Aflatoxins

Some people are aware that different kinds of mold produce what are called mycotoxins, but some of these (particularly Aspergillus flavus) can produce some very lethal toxins that are called aflatoxins. These are some very potent mycotoxins and even when they are consumed in minute amounts, they can cause some serious disease. They have been known to cause either chronic or acute liver cancer or liver disease.

Birds are particularly sensitive to Aflatoxins and many pets can become diseased and die if they come into contact with molds that produce these toxins. Its toxicity to the liver can also bring about many different liver diseases including cirrhosis, fatty liver disease, and hepatic fibrosis. These are also known to cause a number of different kinds of cancer and blood disorders. Small arteries that are affected become blocked due to the presence of clots.

Unfortunately, once a fungus grows on food and produces an aflatoxin, the concern is that this toxin is on the item for good. No amount of freezing or cooking can destroy it and they will stay on the food in definitely.

Aflaatoxins also grow mainly on different grains and legumes like peanuts. Peanuts often have alfatoxins present upon them and while the peanuts that are intended for consumption by people are tested for these toxins, there is no law stating that they must be tested for consumption by animals. Aflatoxins usually grow most effectively while the item is in storage, so in order to limit the growth of fungi that causes these toxins, these items must be stored correctly. Aflatoxins are also known to grow in items like pecans, walnuts, corn, or even sometimes milk.

Any pets that you have that have any pre-existing liver conditions should not be fed items that are common to contain aflatoxins, such as whole grains, nuts, and foods that are not approved for human consumption. There are a lot of commercial foods developed for pets and these will almost always contain some level of aflatoxins, but the body can usually detoxify a small amount of these. If the food you are feeding your pet contains a higher level of aflatoxins and you continue feeding it this food over a long period of time, some significant health complications can occur.

If you have pets, especially birds, be attentive to what you feed them. Birds should be fed fresh seeds or grains whenever you can and try to limit your bird’s commercial diet to no more than around 10 to 20 percent.


Jim Corkern is a writer and promoter of quality
water damage restoration and
mold remediation companies across the united states.