Fumonisin association with food and health

Introduction

In the world of food safety, there are many potential risks and hazards that can impact both the food we eat and our health. One such hidden threat is fumonisin, a group of mycotoxins produced by certain molds, predominantly found in cereals and other grains. In this blog, we'll delve into the association between fumonisin and food, as well as its potential impact on human health. Understanding this lesser-known danger is crucial in safeguarding both our food supply and our well-being.

                                                                                         Source:  https://www.eurofins.in/blog/food-testing/mycotoxins/

What is Fumonisin?

Fumonisins are toxic substances produced primarily by the fungi Fusarium verticillioides and Fusarium proliferatum, which can contaminate crops such as corn (maize), rice, wheat, and other cereals. These moulds thrive under specific conditions, including warm temperatures and high humidity, making them a concern in various regions worldwide. Among the fumonisins, fumonisin B1 is the most prevalent and considered the most toxic.

Health Implications of Fumonisin

Mycotoxicoses: Consuming fumonisin-contaminated food can lead to mycotoxicoses, a group of diseases caused by mycotoxins. Fumonisins are known to affect the nervous system and have been linked to diseases like leukoencephalomalacia in horses.

Esophageal Cancer: Prolonged exposure to high levels of fumonisin B1 has been associated with an increased risk of esophageal cancer in some populations, particularly in regions where maize is a dietary staple.

Neural Tube Defects: Some studies suggest a potential association between fumonisin exposure during pregnancy and an increased risk of neural tube defects in newborns.

Impaired Immune System: Fumonisins can compromise the immune system's function, leaving individuals more susceptible to infections and diseases.

The significance of testing

Market overview

 The global mycotoxin testing market was valued at approximately US$ 6.12 billion in 2021 and is estimated to reach US$ 11.12 billion by 2030. The market is anticipated to witness significant growth due to the rising emphasis on food safety regulations and stricter standards worldwide.

Recall incidents

On December 30, 2020, Midwestern Pet Foods issued a recall for certain batches of Sportmix High Energy Dog Food due to elevated levels of aflatoxin, a mycotoxin that can contaminate corn. Tragically, as of January 11, 2021, more than 70 pets had lost their lives after consuming the affected product. Following the incident, the company expanded the recall to include other corn-containing items manufactured in their Oklahoma plant. As of January 25, the number of pet fatalities had risen to 110+, with over 210 pets becoming sick, and the recall extended to 35 additional countries. In response to the situation, a class-action lawsuit has been filed.

Regulations and standards

The standards and regulations for fumonisin vary from country to country. In the United States, the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) has set maximum levels for fumonisin in corn-based foods. The FDA's guidance document, "Guidance for Industry: Fumonisin Levels in Human Foods and Animal Feeds," recommends that the following maximum levels be used:

• 150 ppb (parts per billion) for fumonisin B1 in corn-based foods intended for human consumption
• 20 ppb for fumonisin B1 in corn-based animal feed

In India, the Food Safety and Standards Authority of India (FSSAI) regulates the levels of fumonisin in food. The FSSAI's Food Safety and Standards (Food Products Standards and Food Additives) Regulations, 2011, set the following maximum levels for fumonisin in corn-based foods:

• 150 ppb for fumonisin B1
• 200 ppb for fumonisin B2 and B3

In addition to the FSSAI regulations, the Government of India has also set up a National Fumonisin Monitoring Program (NFPMP) to monitor the levels of fumonisin in corn-based foods in India. The NFPMP collects samples of corn-based foods from different parts of the country and tests them for fumonisin. The results of the tests are used to track the levels of fumonisin in corn-based foods in India and to identify areas where there is a need for intervention.

Testing methods

Testing for fumonisin in foods is essential to ensure food safety and compliance with regulatory standards. Various analytical methods are available to detect and quantify fumonisin levels in food samples. Here are some common testing methods for fumonisin in foods:

Eurofins role in Fumonisin testing

Eurofins Scientific is a global leader in providing testing, analytical, and advisory services, including fumonisin testing. Eurofins offers comprehensive mycotoxin testing services, including the detection and quantification of fumonisin in various food and feed products.

Eurofins' role in fumonisin testing includes the following:

Advanced Testing Methods: Eurofins uses state-of-the-art analytical techniques, such as High-Performance Liquid Chromatography (HPLC), Liquid Chromatography-Mass Spectrometry (LC-MS), and other advanced methods, to detect and quantify fumonisin in food samples.

Expertise and Experience: With years of experience in food testing and analysis, Eurofins has developed expertise in mycotoxin detection, including fumonisins. Their teams of skilled scientists and technicians ensure accurate and reliable results.

Accredited Laboratories: Eurofins operates accredited laboratories equipped with modern equipment and facilities, ensuring the highest quality standards in fumonisin testing.

Regulatory Compliance: Eurofins' testing services are designed to meet regulatory requirements, allowing food companies to comply with safety regulations and standards related to fumonisin levels in food products.

Customized Solutions: Eurofins tailors its testing services to suit the specific needs of food manufacturers and processors, ensuring that testing protocols align with their unique requirements.

Rapid Turnaround Times: Eurofins aims to deliver testing results in a timely manner, allowing food companies to make informed decisions about their products and maintain efficient supply chains.

Risk Assessment and Mitigation: Eurofins can provide risk assessment and mitigation strategies to help food companies manage the risks associated with fumonisin contamination effectively.

Eurofins Analytical Services India, located in Bangalore, has achieved a significant milestone by receiving recognition from the US Food and Drug Administration (FDA) under the Laboratory Accreditation for Analyses of Foods (LAAF) program. This makes Eurofins the first laboratory in Asia to receive such recognition.

References

1. https://www.sciencedirect.com/topics/agricultural-and-biological-sciences/fumonisin
2. https://www.globenewswire.com/en/news-release/2023/01/17/2589556/0/en/Global-Mycotoxin-Testing-Market-Size-\
3. https://www.petfoodindustry.com/safety-quality/pet-food-safety/article/15467565/mycotoxin-pet-food-recalls-provide-cautionary
4. https://www.fda.gov/regulatory-information/search-fda-guidance-documents/guidance-industry-fumonisin-levels-human-foods-and-animal-feeds

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