The hidden danger of mycotoxins: how ELISA kits improve food safety research

Mycotoxins are toxic secondary metabolites produced by certain fungi, many of which can infect agricultural crops such as wheat, corn, and nuts. Their presence poses a significant concern for the food industry, as exposure can occur directly in plant-based products like bread and cereals, or indirectly through animal feed, affecting livestock and, in turn, animal-derived foods. Fungal contamination is not limited to the farming stage of the food production cycle and therefore mycotoxins can contaminate produce during storage and transportation, further increasing risks across the supply chain. Crucially, they are also chemically stable allowing them to survive standard crop processing such as milling, roasting or boiling (1).

When ingested, these toxins are associated with a wide spectrum of adverse health effects, both acute and chronic. They are known to cause organ disruption, particularly to the liver and kidneys, and can exert harmful effects at the cellular and molecular levels (1). Certain mycotoxins, such as aflatoxin, have been classified as carcinogenic in both humans and animals. Alarmingly, it’s estimated that approximately 28% of hepatocellular carcinoma cases are linked to aflatoxin B₁ exposure (1).

It is not only public health affected by mycotoxins. The economic impact of mycotoxin contamination in crops and livestock can be felt on a global scale (2). To mitigate the health risks posed by mycotoxins, many countries and international organizations, including the Food and Agriculture Organization and the European Union, have established threshold levels that determine the acceptability of agricultural products for use in the food industry (3). While these measures are crucial for protecting public health, they can also result in the disposal of contaminated crops and the reduction of trade. Such outcomes can impose severe economic losses on the agricultural sector, particularly in developing countries that depend heavily on agricultural exports (2). Globally, mycotoxin contamination is estimated to be responsible for upwards of 1 billion metric tons of food waste per year (4).

Beyond the direct loss of agricultural goods, additional costs stem from the impact of mycotoxins on both livestock and human health. In animals, toxicity can result in veterinary expenses, reduced productivity, and diminished breeding capacity (2). For humans, exposure can contribute to chronic conditions, such as cancer, immune suppression, infertility, and developmental defects, that require long-term and potentially costly treatment, increasing the strain on health services (5). Together, these factors demonstrate that the economic burden of mycotoxins extends far beyond crop losses, affecting multiple layers of the food system and global economy.

Considering the health risks and economic impacts of mycotoxins, continued research in this field is essential. Advancing our understanding of factors that influence contamination can guide the development of more effective detection methods, prevention strategies, and remediation technologies. By investing in comprehensive mycotoxin research, the food industry and policymakers can work toward reducing human and animal exposure, minimizing food waste, and strengthening food security and public health on a global scale.

In food safety research, ELISA (Enzyme-Linked Immunosorbent Assay) technology plays a crucial role. ELISA kits use highly specific antibodies to identify and measure mycotoxins in food, feed, and agricultural products with remarkable sensitivity and precision.

To support research into food safety, Abbexa has a line of Food Safety and Mycotoxin ELISA Kits, including:

Explore the whole catalogue of premium quality ELISA kits, antibodies, and proteins here.

At Abbexa, you can also get custom Multiplex Assay development designed to fit your exact research needs and budget. Fiil in this form or contact us to get more information.

References

1. Janik, E., Niemcewicz, M., Ceremuga, M., Stela, M., Saluk-Bijak, J., Siadkowski, A., & Bijak, M. (2020). Molecular Aspects of Mycotoxins-A Serious Problem for Human Health. International journal of molecular sciences, 21(21), 8187. https://doi.org/10.3390/ijms21218187
2. Goda, A.A., Shi, J., Xu, J., Liu, X., Zhou, Y., Xiao, L., Abdel-Galil, M., Salem, S.H., Ayad, E.G., Deabes, M., Pooe, O., Donia, M.A.A., Abou-Arab, A.A.K., & Ramzy, S. (2025) . Global health and economic impacts of mycotoxins: a comprehensive review. Environmental Sciences Europe, 37 (122). https://doi.org/10.1186/s12302-025-01166-x
3. Pandey, A. K., Samota, M. K., Kumar, A., Silva, A. S., & Dubey, N. K. (2023). Fungal mycotoxins in food commodities: present status and future concerns. Frontiers in Sustainable Food Systems, 7. https://doi.org/10.3389/fsufs.2023.1162595
4. Khan, R., Anwar, F., & Ghazali, F. M. (2024). A comprehensive review of mycotoxins: Toxicology, detection, and effective mitigation approaches. Heliyon, 10(8), e28361. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.heliyon.2024.e28361
5. Awuchi, C. G., Ondari, E. N., Nwozo, S., Odongo, G. A., Eseoghene, I. J., Twinomuhwezi, H., Ogbonna, C. U., Upadhyay, A. K., Adeleye, A. O., & Okpala, C. O. R. (2022). Mycotoxins’ Toxicological Mechanisms Involving Humans, Livestock and Their Associated Health Concerns: A Review. Toxins, 14(3), 167. https://doi.org/10.3390/toxins14030167