Food security involves not only ensuring access to adequate food, but also ensuring that the food is nutritious and free from contaminants that can harm human health. Aflatoxins, produced by the fungi Aspergillus flavus and A. parasiticus, are one example of a contaminant that can pose a threat to food security. To address this issue, it is important to implement effective management practices throughout the food chain, from the field to the table, to minimize the risk of aflatoxin contamination. Additionally, promoting awareness about the dangers of aflatoxins at the social level and using a combination of genetic and management practices can help provide a stable and sustainable solution to this problem. This article extensively discusses the harmful effects of Aflatoxins (AFs) and outlines strategies for managing contamination before and after harvest, including the potential for breeding crops with higher resistance. The article also examines the relationship between moisture content and AF contamination in peanuts before harvest. It highlights the impact of AFs on the production of meat, milk, and eggs from animals and underscores the need for a comprehensive policy to prevent AF contamination from entering the food chain at every stage. Improved agronomic practices and cattle feeding, as well as public awareness efforts, can help reduce the risk of AFs in the food supply. With a combination of current genetic improvements and effective pre- and post-harvest management practices, it may be possible to mitigate the issue of AF contamination
Food security and safety are essential global issues that require collaboration from governments, private industry, and individuals to ensure there is enough safe and nutritious food to meet the needs of a growing population. The three main elements impacting food security and safety are the availability of food, access to safe food, and the utilization of food for a healthy life. Aflatoxins, harmful mycotoxins produced by certain fungi, damage a significant proportion of the world’s food supply, which is a factor in food insecurity. Effective strategies to prevent and manage aflatoxin contamination in crops include promoting sustainable and diversified agricultural practices, improving crop management, post-harvest handling and storage, and strict regulation and monitoring of food quality and safety. To date, there have been 20 different types of aflatoxins identified, with B1, B2, G1, and G2 being the most prevalent and dangerous. To mitigate the impact of aflatoxins, it is important to understand the mechanisms of contamination, the impact of aflatoxins, and the management strategies that can be employed to reduce contamination. An updated review on aflatoxin contamination, its impact and management strategies can provide valuable information for researchers, policymakers, and food safety professionals.
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