Recommendation 11 Scientific Background Recommendation 10 Background Mycotoxins, the byproducts of the metabolism of molds, are a health problem in countries with hot damp climates and inadequate storage facilities. When foods are stored at ambient temperatures and for prolonged periods, the probability of the development of mycotoxins increases. Over 300 mycotoxins in food and animal feed have been identified worldwide. Synthetic and natural fungicides and insecticides can reduce the level of organisms that produce mycotoxins.
Insects play a role as vectors for microbial contamination.
Areas most notably affected are Africa, southeast Asia and Latin America. Laboratory evidence along with the geographical distribution of liver cancer support the probable evidence of increased risk. Hepatitis B may increase the population's sensitivity to micotoxins.