Learn more about Alternaria Toxins, its effects, and the analysis services NofaLab offers to detect them.
At NofaLab we routinely check for Alternaria toxins (Altenuene, Alternariol, Alternariol monomethyl ether, Tentoxin and Tenuazonic acid) and other mycotoxins, e.g. Aflatoxins and Ochratoxin A in products.
NofaLab performs the analysis of alternative toxins using the LC-MS/MS technique, which allows multiple residues in accordance with Commission Recommendation (EU) 2022/553 of 5 April 2022.
Alternaria toxins are secondary metabolites produced by fungi that can contaminate grains, oilseeds, fruits and vegetables.
These mycotoxins are known to be produced by various Alternaria fungi, many suspect plant pests in grains, oilseeds, fruits and vegetables. The most likely Alternaria fungus is Alternaria alternata, which is also the major mycotoxin-producing fungus. Alternaria fungi not only contaminate crops, but they can also spoil food in the refrigerator.
The different Alternaria toxins have different toxicity. Cytotoxic (cell-killing), teratogenic (damage to the unborn child), fetotoxic (harmful influence on the development or health of the unborn species), mutagenic (damage to the genes), antiviral and antibacterial properties have been found in the various alternaria toxins .
In addition, alternaria spores are among the most common indoor and outdoor allergens and are a serious cause of childhood asthma.
According to COMMISSION RECOMMENDATION (EU) 2022/553 of 5 April 2022 on the control of the presence of Alternaria toxins in foodstuffs, the presence of the Alternaria toxins alternariol, alternariol monomethyl ether and tenuazonic acid in foodstuffs, specifically in processed tomato based products, paprika powder, sesame seed, sunflower seed, sunflower oil, nuts, dried figs and cereal based foods for children and toddlers. If possible, other Alternaria toxins should also be analyzed and the results documented to the European Food Safety Authority.
Contact us for more information regarding Alternaria toxins analysis and for other services.