Ochratoxins
Ochratoxins belong to the fungal toxins (mycotoxins) and are produced by different types of molds, such as Aspergillus ochraceus, Aspergillus meleus and Penicillum viridicatum. The best known and most prevalent fungal toxin is Ochratoxin A.
Cereals like corn, wheat and barley are the most affected foods. But also rice, coffee and nuts can be contaminated by ochratoxins.
Effects of ochratoxins
Ochratoxins can cause liver and kidney damage and in animal tests, they have carcinogenic and teratogenic effects.