Aflatoxin

Valencia peanuts grown in drier, cooler climates such as New Mexico have significantly lower aflatoxin risk, and organic Valencia peanut butter is a safer choice. Aflatoxin was found in every tested jar of peanut butter consumed by the affected children. The detection of aflatoxin in peanut butter prompted further investigation into diet and cancer outcomes. Aflatoxin contamination was the common factor linking the childhood liver cancer cases discussed in the article. Aflatoxin is a mycotoxin produced primarily by Aspergillus mold species and is classified as a liver carcinogen directly linked to liver cancer. The article describes aflatoxin as the most carcinogenic substance ever tested. Aflatoxin exposure was present in the peanut butter supply even among children with lower liver cancer mortality. Commercial peanut butter is a potential source of aflatoxin exposure. Aflatoxin is produced by Aspergillus mold. Aflatoxin was found in every examined jar of peanut butter in the childhood liver cancer investigation. Aflatoxin contamination risk is highest in warm, humid climates such as parts of Asia and Africa, where it affects cereals, legumes, and grains stored in suboptimal cond…