Aflatoxin is a poisonous substance produced by a fungus, Aspergillus flavus, that occurs naturally in soils of cultivated and non-cultivated areas. The fungus commonly produces the toxin in maize, groundnut, and other staple grains and vegetables, and is especially prevalent in Africa. When animals consume feed contaminated with aflatoxin, milk and (at very low levels) meat, fish and eggs, can also be contam-inated. This note brings together recent research from the CGIAR and others on technologies for aflatoxin control in Africa and provides recommendations for catalyzing their adoption.

Mycotoxins are secondary metabolites produced by fungi in a wide range of foods (cereals, peanut, tree nuts, dried fruits, coffee, cocoa, grapes, spices...) both in the field and after harvest, particularly during storage. They can also be found in processed foods of plant origin, or by transfer, in food products of animal (milk, eggs, meat and offal). Mycotoxins are of major concern since they can cause acute or chronic intoxications in both humans and animals which are sometimes fatal. Many countries, particularly in Europe, have set maximum acceptable levels for mycotoxins in food and feed. The book reviews the latest literature and innovations on important aspects of mycotoxins, e.g. mycotoxin producing fungi and the related ecosystems, mycotoxin occurrence, toxicity, analysis and management. Quantitative estimations of impacts of climate change on mycotoxin occurrence have been made recently, using predictive modelling. There is also a growing interest in the occurrence and toxicity of multiple mycotoxins in food and feed, including emerging or modified forms of mycotoxins. Innovative tools were also developed to detect and quantify toxinogenic fungi and their toxins. In order to reduce the use of chemicals that are harmful to the environment and health of consumers, alternative methods of prevention and decontamination of mycotoxins were tested in pre- and post-harvest, using microorganisms, natural substances or radiation treatments.

Vols. for 1964- have guides and journal lists.