Rising temperatures heighten mycotoxin risks, warns EU agency

The European Environment Agency (EEA) has issued a warning regarding the increasing risks posed by mycotoxins due to climate change. In a recent briefing, the agency highlighted how rising temperatures are enhancing the likelihood of human exposure to these harmful toxins, which can contaminate crops, food, and animal feed.  

Mycotoxins are naturally occurring toxins produced by fungi, and their health implications are severe. The EEA outlined a range of potential health risks associated with mycotoxin exposure, including hormonal disruption, immune system weakening, liver and kidney damage, increased miscarriage risk, and carcinogenic effects. Vulnerable populations, such as young children aged one to three, infants under twelve months, pregnant women, and agricultural workers, face heightened risks due to their higher food intake relative to body weight.  

According to findings from the European human biomonitoring project, approximately 14% of adults in six EU countries are exposed to the mycotoxin deoxynivalenol (DON) at harmful levels. DON is commonly found in staple crops like wheat, maize, and barley, particularly in temperate regions. The EEA noted that exposure occurs primarily through contaminated food products, including grains, cereals, bread, and pasta. Alarmingly, traditional food preparation methods, such as washing and cooking, do not eliminate these toxins, as some are resistant to heat and remain undetectable by taste or smell.  

The agency's briefing emphasized that climate change is altering the behavior and distribution of fungi, leading to an increased prevalence of mycotoxins. A warmer and more humid climate in Europe contributes to a higher risk of contamination. For instance, maize is particularly susceptible to aflatoxin contamination, raising food safety concerns and potentially impacting international trade.  

Extreme weather conditions, including heavy rainfall and prolonged droughts, exacerbate plant stress, making crops more vulnerable to fungal infections.  

The EEA projects that developed countries with moderate climates will face the highest risks of mycotoxin contamination due to climate change. With higher temperatures and increased humidity, the likelihood of multiple mycotoxin contamination in crops is expected to rise, further escalating human dietary exposure.  

The EEA notes that the rising threat of fungal infections could lead farmers to use more fungicides. Over time, this heightened usage may contribute to an increased risk of antifungal resistance, resulting in fungal infections in humans that are harder to treat.

In response to these challenges, the EEA suggests several preventive measures. Future strategies may include breeding crops resistant to fungal infections, implementing good agricultural practices such as crop rotation, and utilizing biological controls and predictive models to mitigate risks.  

The agency advocates for a coordinated approach across European and national levels to tackle mycotoxin contamination effectively. This "One Health" strategy recognizes the interconnectedness of human, animal, and environmental health, aiming to develop comprehensive solutions that address these complex issues.    

Source:  

European Environment Agency