Environmental Nutrition, February 1st, 1995
Q. I know aflatoxin is a natural carcinogen that grows on peanuts. But can aflatoxin grow in peanut butter?
A. No. You're right that aflatoxin is a potent carcinogen that causes liver cancer in laboratory animals and perhaps in humans, too. The term aflatoxin actually refers to a group of natural toxins produced by certain Aspergillus molds. And, yes, the molds grow on peanuts, as well as on other nuts, grains and corn while being stored in the warm, humid environment of silos.
The mold can continue growing in the store and at home, so it's wise to sort through fresh nuts, discarding any t...
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