Silent Saboteurs: Decoding Mycotoxins-From Chemistry and Prevalence to Health Risks, Detection, Management and...

Area of Science:

• Food Science
• Toxicology
• Agricultural Science

Background:

• Mycotoxins are toxic fungal metabolites posing global risks to food safety, public health, and agriculture.
• Both acute and chronic exposure to mycotoxins have severe health consequences.
• Current surveillance, prevention, and risk management strategies face limitations in sensitivity, cost, and field applicability.

Purpose of the Study:

• To review the classification, biosynthesis, chemistry, and mechanisms of action of mycotoxins.
• To highlight the global prevalence and health impacts of mycotoxin exposure.
• To explore emerging technologies for improved mycotoxin detection and management.

Main Methods:

• Comprehensive literature review on mycotoxins.
• Analysis of traditional detection and control strategies.
• Evaluation of emerging technologies, including AI and ML with advanced sensing platforms.

Main Results:

• Mycotoxins present significant global challenges despite extensive research.
• Existing detection methods are often costly and lack field applicability.
• AI and ML integrated with sensing platforms show promise for enhanced precision and real-time mycotoxin monitoring.

Conclusions:

• Substantial gaps persist in effective mycotoxin surveillance and management.
• Novel strategies integrating AI, ML, and biotechnology are crucial for proactive food safety.
• Interdisciplinary approaches are essential to mitigate the global impact of mycotoxins.