Aflatoxin B1

A potent hepatocarcinogen produced by Aspergillus flavus and Aspergillus parasiticus on maize, groundnuts, tree nuts and spices in warm, humid conditions — toxic to humans, birds, fish and rodents alike. Classified among the most powerful natural carcinogens known, it targets the liver and is devastatingly synergistic with hepatitis B infection. Regulators set their strictest mycotoxin limits for B1, and export shipments are routinely rejected when it exceeds a few parts per billion. Control depends on pre-harvest management, rapid drying, dry storage and vigilant testing through the supply chain.