UPSC Prelims 2013 Q27: Science & Technology – Health & Diseases
Improper handling and storage of cereal grains and oilseeds result in the production of
toxins known as aflatoxins which are not generally destroyed by normal cooking process.
Aflatoxins are produced by
- (a) bacteria
- (b) protozoa
- (c) moulds
- (d) viruses
Answer: (c) moulds
Explanation
Aflatoxins
Aflatoxins are poisons made by moulds (fungi), mainly Aspergillus flavus and Aspergillus parasiticus.
| Fact | Detail |
|---|---|
| Grow on | Groundnut, maize, rice, oilseeds, spices |
| Conditions | Warm, humid storage |
| Cooking | Not destroyed by normal cooking |
| Effect | Liver damage and liver cancer |
| In milk | Cattle fed on bad feed pass aflatoxin M1 into milk |
The options checked:
| Option | Verdict |
|---|---|
| (a) Bacteria | Incorrect |
| (b) Protozoa | Incorrect |
| (c) Moulds | Correct |
| (d) Viruses | Incorrect |
Prevention: dry the grain well and store it in a cool, dry place.
Answer: (c) moulds.
Why each option is right or wrong
- (a) Incorrect. Bacteria do not produce aflatoxins.
- (b) Incorrect. Protozoa do not produce aflatoxins.
- (c) CORRECT. Aflatoxins are produced by moulds of the genus Aspergillus.
- (d) Incorrect. Viruses do not produce toxins of this kind.
Key point
Aflatoxins: toxins of the mould Aspergillus flavus on badly stored groundnut and maize; survive cooking; cause liver cancer.
Remember
Aflatoxin = mould (Aspergillus) toxin.
Common mistakes
- Blaming bacteria for all food poisoning.
- Not seeing 'fla' from flavus in the word a-fla-toxin.
- Thinking cooking makes mouldy grain safe.
Exam tip
A-fla-toxin = Aspergillus flavus toxin. Aspergillus is a mould.
Sources
- Food Safety and Standards Authority of India — Guidance note on aflatoxins
- World Health Organization — Mycotoxins: fact sheet