Mycotoxins and toxic plant alkaloids: recent developments
Alternaria toxins, T-2/HT-2 toxin and pyrrolizidine alkaloids in the spotlight -
By Dr. Scarlett Biselli, Nadja Fluechter and Dr. Susanne Rathjen, Eurofins WEJ Contaminants, Germany
Mycotoxins and natural plant alkaloids pose a significant health risk within the global food supply chain. Presently, the European Food Safety Agency (EFSA) is publishing a range of Scientific Opinions on various substances including pyrrolizidine alkaloids, Alternaria and T-2/HT-2 toxins.
Pyrrolizidine alkaloids (PAs) are a group of secondary plant metabolites present in about 3 % of all flowering plants. Considerable amounts have been detected in pollen, honey, herbal teas and salad. The EFSA concludes that there is a possible health concern for children who are high consumers of honey. Additional data are deemed necessary.
Fungi of the genus Alternaria are common representatives of field fungi, producing toxins and secondary metabolites. Six of these substances are of major importance in the food chain. The EFSA concludes that grain, vegetables, fruit, alcoholic beverages, oilseeds and vegetable oils mainly contribute to the dietary exposure to Alternaria toxins. For a final evaluation additional data have to be collected.
T-2 and HT-2 toxin are produced by various Fusarium species. Grains and grain-based foods make the largest contribution to T-2/HT-2 toxin exposure for humans. The EFSA established a group tolerable daily intake (TDI) of 100 ng/kg body weight for the sum of T-2/HT-2 toxins. A proposal put forward by the EU Commission with maximum levels for T-2 and HT-2 toxin in food is currently under discussion.
The Competence Centre Eurofins WEJ Contaminants in Hamburg has many years of expertise with the analysis of various mycotoxins and natural plant alkaloids in a broad range of matrices.
Just recently the established LC-MS/MS analysis of Alternaria toxins has been extended to oilseeds and grains. Additionally, a new LC-MS/MS method is offered encompassing the analysis of the most important pyrrolizidine alkaloids.
Contact: NadjaFluechter@eurofins.de