Aflatoxin B1

Aflatoxin B1 (AFB1) is a highly toxic and carcinogenic compound produced by certain species of molds, primarily Aspergillus flavus and Aspergillus parasiticus. It is one of the most studied mycotoxins due to its significant effects on human and animal health. AFB1 contaminates various agricultural products, such as grains, nuts, and seeds, particularly in warm and humid climates. It is known to induce liver cancer and has been classified as a Group 1 carcinogen by the International Agency for Research on Cancer (IARC).

Aflatoxin B1 is an aflatoxin produced by Aspergillus flavus and A. parasiticus. Aflatoxin B1 is a very potent carcinogen with a TD₅₀ 0.0032 mg/kg/day in rats. This carcinogenic potency varies across species with some, such as rats and monkeys, seemingly much more susceptible than others. It is a common contaminant in a variety of foods including peanuts, cottonseed meal, corn, and other grains; as well as animal feeds.