Aflatoxin Production and Sources
Question
Improper handling and storage of cereal grains and oilseeds result in the production of toxins known as aflatoxins which are not generally destroyed by normal cooking process. Aflatoxins are produced by (a) bacteria (b) protozoa (c) moulds (d) viruses
Options
bacteria
protozoa
moulds
viruses
Explanation
Aflatoxins are toxic secondary metabolites produced by certain fungal moulds, particularly Aspergillus species. These moulds commonly contaminate grains and oilseeds during improper storage, especially in conditions of high moisture and temperature. Bacteria, protozoa, and viruses do not produce aflatoxins. Option (c) is correct. Aflatoxins are heat-stable and are not destroyed by normal cooking processes, making them a significant food safety concern.
Question details
Year
2013
Paper
GS Paper 1
Question
Q27
Subject
Science & Technology
Sub-topic
Microbiology and Food Safety
Type
Factual single
Difficulty
Easy
Nature
Static
Source hint
NCERT Biology - Microorganisms
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