Mycotoxin in Nuts and Dried Fruit Survey 2002

Ochratoxin A is a mycotoxin with carcinogenic, nephrotoxic, teratogenic, immunotoxic and possibly neurotoxic properties. Dried vine fruits have been found to be highly contaminated and are a significant source of Ochratoxin A for people with high levels of consumption, in particular children. Regulations setting maximum permitted levels for Ochratoxin A will be introduced this year.

Aflatoxins are mycotoxins that are known to be carcinogenic in animals. The maximum levels permitted in certain foodstuffs are controlled by EU regulations.

The project proposal was to carry out surveys of the Ochratoxin A levels in vine fruits and figs to establish if there is a problem with these foods in the UK and of aflatoxins in nuts for compliance with the regulations.

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