Mycotoxicosis is ... Prevention of mycotoxicosis

The products of the vital activity of certain fungi present a serious danger both to humans and animals. There is such a thing as mycotoxicosis. This is a certain group of diseases that have arisen because of the adverse effects of toxins-the products of the metabolism of mold fungi.

What is the danger of molds?

These microorganisms are distributed on all continents of our planet, and the toxins that they produce cause considerable damage to both the economy (as a result of damage to raw materials) and human and animal health. Products become unfit for consumption, their taste and other organoleptic qualities deteriorate sharply. Mushrooms, which can provoke the development of mold, are divided into mushroom-parasites (affect living cultures) and saprophytes (they are living on dead plants). Optimum conditions for their activation are high temperature, humidity of 95%, moisture of feed about 30%. Mycotoxicosis pathogens (there are about 250 of them) can begin their life activities during harvesting, and in case of improper transportation or storage. If the animal used food affected by fungi of mold, then meat, milk becomes the habitat of such microorganisms. In this case, the likelihood of getting infected and the person who will use these products. Mycotoxicosis of animals can lead to their death. But no less serious violations can cause these toxins in humans.

Negative effect of mycotoxins

Moldy mushrooms have an extremely negative effect on virtually all body systems. Some of them cause chronic diseases, others disrupt the work of the nervous system. Dermatitis, allergic reactions, dysbacteriosis - these are probably the most harmless manifestations that can cause mycotoxicosis and fungal infections. These diseases can provoke the development of kidney dystrophy, gout, depression, damage the vessels, and lead to the appearance of tumors. A large number of these microorganisms affect the development of the fetus in pregnant women. Another important point - they are able to affect the genetic apparatus of man.

Aflatoxins. Negative effects of poisoning

The most studied pathogens of fungal intestinal infections of mycotoxicosis are A.flavus, aflatoxins. They can develop in corn, wheat, rice, cocoa beans, coffee, some vegetables, fruits. In general, these toxins are found in cereals, in rare cases in products of animal origin - meat, milk, eggs (up to 1 μg / kg). Even a small amount of aflatoxins can have a negative impact on young children. Specialists have established a link between the development of primary liver cancer and this group of toxins. If aflatoxins constantly enter the body, a person may experience a decrease in weight. Children are slowing their growth. Most often this pathogen causes mycotoxicosis of animals - pigs, calves, goats. Also sensitive to aflatoxins and ducklings, turkeys, geese. When serious infection is possible, death from 30% to 100% of the total number of livestock is possible.

Fusarotoxins. Symptoms of intoxication

If the grain has hibernated under a snowball, then the risk of fungus development is high. The products of its metabolism are fairly stable. Fusariotoxins are not destroyed during boiling, they have high chemical resistance. In addition, the grain has been preserved for many years. These toxins cause such a disease as alimentary-toxic aleukia. First there are signs of angina, the general condition worsens somewhat. Then the level of leukocytes in the blood drops sharply (almost 10 times). Hemoglobin also decreases, a characteristic rash may appear on the skin. Over time, the necrotic process develops. Therefore, mycosis, mycotoxicosis - this is an extremely dangerous disease, requiring competent treatment and taking antibiotics. Grain, infected with fusariotoxins, is in no way suitable for human consumption, as well as for animals. Use it only for technical processing (for example, when manufacturing technical alcohol).

Ergotism. First signs

Another mushroom that can hit the grain is Claviceps purpurea. Colonies of this microorganism have a dark purple color. May arise on spikelets of rye, wheat. If the grain is not thoroughly cleansed of ergot, the toxic substances are taken directly into the flour. Baking from such raw materials can cause ergotism. In this case, the organs of the digestive system are affected. All symptoms of poisoning are manifested - nausea, vomiting, abdominal pain. The severe form of the disease is characterized by attacks of hallucination, a consciousness disorder. Possible and gangrenous form, in which there are necrosis of the limbs, face. Treatment in this case is symptomatic, aimed at removing intoxication of the body. The first method of combating ergot is thorough cleaning of cereals.

Stachybotriotoxicosis

These mycotoxicoses are diseases that are most often found in animals, rarely in humans. The causative agent is the toxin of the fungus Stachybotrys alternans. Stachibotriotoksiz - very serious condition of horses, cattle, poultry. The clinical picture is as follows: there is an inflammatory process in the gastrointestinal tract, then - necrotic changes in the digestive system. Develops acute heart failure, agranulocytosis. Another disease that affects the cardiovascular system of the animal is dendroduktoproteikosis. The peculiarity of this disease is its rapid course, resulting in the death of livestock.

Other dangerous mycotoxins

To no less dangerous products of fungal metabolism are ochratoxin A, patulin. The first toxin produces fungi of the class Penicillium, Aspergillus. For its synthesis, a high moisture content of the product (not less than 22%) is necessary. Such mycotoxicosis is a poisoning in animals, a violation of kidney function in humans. In addition, ochratoxin, circulating in the blood, is able to penetrate into breast milk. Laboratory studies confirm its carcinogenic effect. Patulin accumulates mainly in berries, fruits. It is noteworthy that this toxin is resistant to high temperature, so it can be found in the processed products of rotten fruit. Especially often patulin found in apple juice. The consequences of toxin poisoning are serious. This is the brain edema, and the impaired functions of the kidneys, lungs.

Prevention of accumulation of toxins in plants

In order to minimize mycotoxicosis, prevention of their occurrence should include the following measures. Plant breeding is an effective method of combating molds. The development of genetic engineering can instill a culture of high resistance to microorganisms. The second principle is the correct application of agricultural technology. Harvest should be collected according to the established regulations. The subsequent processing of grain is also extremely important. First of all, it is necessary to clear the products from the affected elements. Storage of raw materials should be carried out in well-ventilated areas, it is important not to exceed the permissible humidity threshold of the crops. It is very important to carry out measures aimed at destroying rodents and insects in grain storage areas. Before processing, the product undergoes laboratory tests for the presence of mycotoxins. If they are found, then it is necessary to clean the raw materials or completely withdraw it from production.

Prevention of mycotoxicosis in everyday life

Mycotoxicosis - a disease that often have a chronic nature. Accumulating, toxins only after a certain time begin to disable our body. Therefore, in domestic conditions it is very important not to allow the development of mold fungi on food products. It is important to remember that the main factor that provokes the growth of these microorganisms is high humidity and high temperature. Products that soon deteriorate, should be carefully examined. At the first signs of the appearance of mold from their use is best to abandon. Of course, not all molds are dangerous poisons. However, you do not have to risk your health. This rule applies to fruits, vegetables, baked goods, jams and other preserves. Animal food should also be carefully examined. If the affected grain is found, such food is no longer suitable for eating. Food mycotoxicosis can cause considerable damage to animals and birds.