Which mycotoxin is produced by Aspergillus species and poses a public health risk?

• A. Aflatoxin
• B. Ochratoxin
• C. Patulin
• D. Fumonisin

Answer: (A)

Aflatoxins are the toxins produced by Aspergillus species that pose a major public health risk. These compounds, especially aflatoxin B1, are among the most potent natural hepatocarcinogens and can contaminate staple foods such as peanuts, maize, and tree nuts when storage conditions are warm and humid. The strong link between Aspergillus and aflatoxin, combined with the severe cancer risk from chronic exposure, makes this the best answer.

Other mycotoxins listed are produced by different fungi or have different primary health concerns. Ochratoxin is nephrotoxic and produced by various fungi including some Aspergillus, patulin is mainly from Penicillium and is a concern in spoiled fruit products, and fumonisins come from Fusarium species and are a concern in maize.