Mycotoxins in Mexico: epidemiology, management, and control strategies

Mycotoxin-producing molds species are extremely common. Many of them provoke serious diseases in humans and animals. These toxins occur, with varying severity, in agricultural products. Since Mexico is a big crops producer, the importance of the presence of these toxins is high. Currently, the Mexican regulation establishes limits only for aflatoxins in cereals and cereal products. No limits are set for other mycotoxins. Epidemiological data although limited, has shown that an important number of samples contain mycotoxin limits above those established abroad. Several strategies for reducing contamination have been conducted in the country such as development of hybrid corn, control of insect population, use of natural products, and modification of nixtamalization and extraction procedures. Although significant research on this field has been conducted, there is still a great need for information to determine the incidence of mycotoxins in Mexican products.