Silicon and nitrogen co-doped carbon quantum dots (SiN@CQDs) showed the strongest potential as a sensing platform for pathogen mycotoxins. Frontier molecular orbital analysis showed that SiN@CQD had the smallest intrinsic HOMO-LUMO gap (1.51eV) compared to N@CQD and Si@CQD, indicating enhanced chemical softness, charge mobility, and reactivity. Adsorption of aflatoxin (AFT), dothistromin (DTM), and versicolorin (VCR) on SiN@CQD was spontaneous and thermodynamically favorable, with energies of - 2.62, - 2.81, and - 2.95eV, respectively. Natural bond orbital analysis revealed strong bidirectional charge transfer between toxins and the quantum dot surface, with the VCR-SiN@CQD complex exhibiting the highest stabilization energy and smallest donor-acceptor gap. Density of states, atomic charge, and molecular electrostatic potential analyses further demonstrated pronounced charge redistribution near the Fermi level following adsorption. Quantum theory of atoms in molecules (QTAIM) and non-covalent interaction (NCI) results confirmed adsorption via hydrogen bonding, π-π stacking, and electrostatic interactions. Overall, these findings provide molecular-level evidence supporting SiN@CQD as a promising candidate to guide subsequent experimental design of toxin detection systems. All calculations were performed using Gaussian 09 software. Density functional theory (DFT) computations were carried out using the PBE0 hybrid functional with Grimme's D3 dispersion correction (PBE0-D3) and the Def2-SVP basis set. Natural bond orbital (NBO) analysis was carried out with NBO 3.0 to quantify charge transfer and donor-acceptor interactions. Quantum theory of atoms in molecules, NCI, and density of states (DOS) analyses were conducted using Multiwfn 3.8. Molecular orbitals, topological features, and isosurfaces were visualized using visual molecular dynamics (VMD). Finite CQD surface models were used to represent local adsorption environments.

During storage, rice grains are susceptible to quantitative and qualitative losses caused by insects and fungi, compromising sanitary quality and increasing risks associated with fungal contamination and mycotoxin occurrence. This study evaluated how contrasting drying strategies—mixed-flow drying (55 °C) and low-temperature bin drying (19–25 °C)—influence grain moisture dynamics, insecticide persistence, pest control, and fungal incidence in stored rough rice. Preventive insecticide treatments consisting of pirimiphos-methyl alone or combined with deltamethrin were evaluated against Sitophilus spp. and Rhyzopertha dominica. The experiment was conducted in a commercial storage unit over 280 days under environmental conditions ranging from ∼19 to 27 °C, relative humidity of ∼70–90%, and precipitation between ∼5 and 85 mm. Grain moisture, insect mortality, and fungal incidence were monitored throughout storage. Mixed-flow drying promoted a faster reduction in grain moisture to approximately 12% (w.b.), whereas low-temperature bin drying maintained moisture levels close to 13% (w.b.) during storage. In addition, mixed-flow drying associated with pirimiphos-methyl + deltamethrin maintained Sitophilus spp. mortality close to 100% up to 160 days of storage, indicating greater insecticide persistence and pest control efficiency compared with low-temperature bin drying. In contrast, low-temperature bin drying maintained higher grain moisture, favoring an increase in Fusarium spp. incidence from 4.0 to 11.2% after 160 days, whereas Aspergillus spp. and Penicillium spp. predominated under mixed-flow drying, reaching maximum incidences of 13.8 and 6.6%, respectively. Although the combined insecticide treatment improved pest control during storage, efficacy against R. dominica remained limited, suggesting lower susceptibility and the need for complementary management strategies. These findings demonstrate that drying conditions directly influence grain microclimate and storage stability, highlighting the importance of integrating drying and chemical management to preserve sanitary quality and minimize storage losses in rough rice.

Mycoflora, mycotoxin exposure and cancer risk assessment in Tuo-Zaafi, a fermented cereal meal consumed in northern Ghana.

Recently, zinc oxide nanoparticles (ZnO-NPs) have been proposed as more sustainable substitutes for chemical fungicides; however, their potential in fungicidal and mycotoxin biosynthesis control in food-related pathogens is still under research. In this study, we synthesized and characterized ZnO-NPs with a high degree of crystallinity and antifungal and antimycotoxigenic properties against two significant toxigenic fungi, Aspergillus flavus f10 and Fusarium proliferatum f30, by using a combination of microwave-assisted combustion. X-ray diffraction (XRD) and FTIR analyses confirmed the formation of a hexagonal wurtzite phase, while TEM imaging revealed rod-like ZnO nanostructures with diameters of approximately 70-90nm and lengths extending up to approximately 700nm. ZnO-NPs demonstrated high concentration-dependent fungicidal behavior; 150 ppm decreased the growth of A. flavus and F. proliferatum by 75 and 97%, respectively whereas bulk zinc sulfate had no effect. SEM revealed severe morphological damage, such as hyphal shrinkage, disturbed sporulation, and outgrowths. ZnO-NPs nearly completely inhibited aflatoxin biosynthesis (reduced AFB1 and AFG2 by 99-99.9) and partially, but significantly inhibited fumonisin B1 synthesis (reduced by approximately 85%), as confirmed by HPLC-analysis. These findings suggest that ZnO-NPs are an effective nanobased intervention to counter the development of fungal contamination and mycotoxin build-up in maize and other food systems. ZnO-NPs offer a promising platform for improving food safety, minimizing post-harvest losses, and promoting sustainable agriculture by simultaneously addressing the proliferation of pathogens and the production of toxins.

Studies have shown that levels of fungal contamination and mycotoxin concentrations in oil-producing seeds vary across regions. In addition, extreme exposure to seeds dust particulate matter can lead to respiratory health problems. In Ethiopia oil-seeds processing factories workers exposure to particulate matter and magnitude of its respiratory symptoms have not been widely explored. To determine particulate matter concentration exposure levels and identify factors associated with respiratory symptoms among oil-seed processing factories workers. Using cross-sectional study design, 14 factories and 716 participants were selected through simple random sampling. Qualitative data were collected through checklist-based observation, in-depth interviews & FGDs and analyzed using qualitative content analysis. Direct particulate matter concentrations were measured using PATS + , Dylos DC1900, and Laser PM2.5 Meter-5800D/5800E devices. Descriptive statistics were used for data summarization, and analysis was conducted using STATA version 16.1. Binary logistic regression &multivariable logistic regression analysis were performed to identify associated factors, with p < 0.05 considered statistically significant. Among 716 participants, 49.9% were female. The mean PM₂.₅ and PM₁₀ concentrations in oil-seeds processing factories were 19.72 ± 11.8µg/m3 and 55.24 ± 14.5µg/m3, respectively. Respiratory symptoms and bronchitis were reported by 25.28% of workers. Wheezing (23.2%), phlegm (22.5%), dyspnea (22.3%), and occupational asthma (12.57%) were the most common symptoms. Significant predictors included particulate matter exposure [AOR = 18.6, 95% CI: (9.12, 37.43)], not PPE use [AOR = 18.3, 95% CI: (2.39, 39.39)], use of wood as an energy source [AOR = 15.47, 95% CI: (4.25,36.4)], and inadequate ventilation [AOR = 14.29,95% CI:(3.01-26.70)]. Workplace exposure to oil seeds PM2.5 and PM10 among oil-seeds processing factories workers exceeded WHO guideline limits. Respiratory and asthma symptoms were highly prevalent, with greater risk among workers exposed above WHO standards. Oil seeds particulate matter exposure, not personal protective Equipment use, energy source, insufficient ventilation, and training were significant factors associated with respiratory symptoms. Necessary measures are needed to limit particulate matter exposure, including effective occupational health and safety programs that emphasize source-level dust control, routine supervision, engineering controls (e.g., adequate ventilation), administrative actions (such as training and risk assessment), and appropriate personal protective equipment use. Future study of personal measurement with case control is desirable.

The impact of silo-bag storage on Fusarium diversity, mycotoxin contamination, and grain deterioration in bread wheat genotypes.

Fusarium culmorum causes Fusarium head blight (FHB) in cereals, leading to significant yield losses and contamination with type B trichothecene mycotoxins such as deoxynivalenol (DON) and its acetylated derivatives 3-ADON and 15-ADON. Due to the limitations of chemical fungicides, there is increasing interest in sustainable alternatives. Naturally occurring antioxidants have shown potential in modulating fungal growth and mycotoxin production. This study evaluated the effects of 11 natural antioxidant compounds on Fusarium culmorum growth and trichothecene production, both in vitro and in planta. In vitro: octyl gallate (7), honokiol (9), and magnolol (10) completely inhibited fungal growth and trichothecene production at 0.5 mmol L-1. In planta: octyl gallate (7), reduced the disease index to 0.63% and total mycotoxin levels by 90% while honokiol (9), and ascorbic acid (1) exhibited notable inhibition in both disease severity and mycotoxin accumulation. The equimolar combination of ascorbic acid and tocopherol demonstrated synergistic inhibition of DON and 3-ADON in vitro, though its efficacy in planta was moderate. No correlation was found in vitro between the antioxidant or lipophilic properties and antifungal efficacy, whereas in planta experiments revealed a positive correlation between antioxidant activity and trichothecene suppression. Statistical analysis was performed using Shapiro-Wilks, Levene and analysis of variance tests (P ≤ 0.05). Natural antioxidants, particularly octyl gallate and honokiol, represent promising candidates for controlling F. culmorum and reducing trichothecene contamination in cereals. Their application could contribute to safer food by reducing trichothecene levels through environmentally friendly strategies. Further research is needed to optimize formulations and assess field-level efficacy. © 2026 The Author(s). Journal of the Science of Food and Agriculture published by John Wiley & Sons Ltd on behalf of Society of Chemical Industry.

Maize is susceptible to ear rot and at risk for mycotoxin accumulation. Fungal colonization and mycotoxin contamination impact grain quality and pose serious health risks. In North America, the most prevalent maize ear rots are Gibberella ear rot (GER), Fusarium ear rot (FER), and Aspergillus ear rot (AER). FER is associated with fumonisin (FUM) contamination and AER with aflatoxin (AFL) contamination. Weather patterns have shifted, and an updated assessment of ear rots and their drivers will guide prioritization of threats to grain quality. Two hybrid panels with varying levels of resistance to ear rot pathogens were screened in highly replicated trials across a range of North American environments. We evaluated one panel for ear rot incidence (n = 108 hybrids) and the other panel (n = 4 hybrids) for mycotoxin accumulation. FER and FUM were the most prevalent disease and toxin, respectively. FER was more common in southern environments, while GER occurred in northern environments. FER and FUM were present in northern environments, including FUM above advisory levels. Insect damage was related to FER and GER incidence. Cool, moist conditions favored GER development, while warm environments were conducive to FER and FUM. Post-silking environmental conditions were important for GER and AFL, while pre-silking conditions were also important for FER and FUM. Despite different epidemiological drivers, GER and FER were observed in overlapping environments. Breeding for resistance to multiple ear rots, integrating epidemiology and plant breeding, and managing environmental stress are crucial for effective ear rot management.

Foods contaminated with fungal mycotoxins pose a serious risk to human health. Soy and other legumes are a vital source of alternative protein, yet the rates of mycotoxin contamination are not understood. We therefore developed a sensitive stable-isotope-dilution-differential-ion-mobility-spectrometry-LC-MS method for the quantification of 43 mycotoxins in soylike matrixes. Extraction by QuEChERS-d-SPE-PSA reduced matrix effects, while Differential-Ion-Mobility-Spectrometry (DMS) decreased background-noise and enabled the selective quantification of acetyl-deoxynivalenol (ACDON) isomers. Careful parameter selection was required since 3-ACDON produced tautomeric ion-mobility peaks. Mycotoxins were rarely found in whole soybeans, with only 3 out of 13 samples containing tentoxin, tenuazonic acid, or altenuene. However, mycotoxins were found in 52% non-soy legumes, 58% soy-protein powders, and 100% soy-milk samples including infant formulas. Alternaria mycotoxins were the most prevalent mycotoxins with Fusarium and Aspergillus mycotoxins also observed. Thus, although soybeans appear relatively resistant to mycotoxin contamination, even compared to other legumes, contamination may be introduced during storage and processing.

Autism initiation has been associated with genetic vulnerabilities, disruption of gastrointestinal microbes (gut dysbiosis), chemical and neurotoxin damage, maternal infections, allergies or autoimmune diseases. Ingested neurotoxin barriers protecting the central nervous system of a fetus or child include the gastrointestinal wall of the mother or child and the fetus or child's blood-brain barrier. Inflammation from gut dysbiosis or inflammation from other causes can decrease protections provided by the gastrointestinal wall and the blood-brain barrier, allowing neurotoxins to reach the fetus or child's brain. Postnatal gut dysbiosis can potentially increase inflammation to facilitate neurotoxin penetration of a child's brain. Chemical pollutants and neurotoxins continue to increase and include aluminum, mercury, lead, arsenic, cadmium, organophosphates, organochlorines, bacterial toxins and fungal mycotoxins. Gut dysbiosis can increase neurotoxin concentrations within a fetal or child's brain, potentially initiating neurodevelopmental damage to cause autism. There are three possible scenarios initiating autism. These scenarios include inflammation and neurotoxin access to fetal brains within the prenatal neurodevelopment period, inflammation and neurotoxin access to child brains within the postnatal neurodevelopment period, or a two-stage neurotoxin access to brains within the prenatal and postnatal neurodevelopment periods. In summary, a comprehensive explanation for autism causation by several distinct pathways is discussed.

Cecina de León is a traditional Spanish dry-cured beef product whose surface, as in other similar meat products, becomes heavily colonised by fungi during ripening, raising concerns related to possible mycotoxin contamination. This study aimed to characterise the mycobiota associated with cecina and its production environment, with particular emphasis on mycotoxigenic Penicillium species. Seventy-eight cecina samples and 26 air samples were collected from meat-processing plants and local markets in the province of León (Spain) and analysed for fungal counts, water activity and pH. A total of 101 mould isolates and 16 yeasts were recovered, with Penicillium accounting for 88% of all moulds. Sixteen Penicillium species were identified using a polyphasic approach integrating macro- and micromorphological analysis, extrolite production, molecular markers (BenA, CaM and ITS), and MALDI-TOF MS. Mycotoxin screening by HPTLC and HPLC-PDA targeted cyclopiazonic acid, ochratoxin A, patulin, citrinin, griseofulvin and mycophenolic acid, revealing that 51% of the Penicillium isolates were mycotoxin producers, mainly P. commune. The proposed polyphasic strategy, including MALDI-TOF MS as a rapid complementary tool, offers a practical framework for the surveillance of fungal communities and mycotoxin risk in meat-processing environments.

The objective of this study was to evaluate the preharvest application of γ-aminobutyric acid (GABA), melatonin (MT), and oxalic acid (OA), at different concentrations and application frequencies, on the physicochemical and microbiological quality of dried figs (cv. Calabacita) at commercial harvest and after 3 and 6 months of refrigerated storage. A further aim was to determine their impact on fungal populations and mycotoxin production. The results showed that untreated dried figs had a higher frequency of Aspergillus welwitschiae, A. tubingensis, and Aspergillus section Flavi, whereas elicitor-treated figs exhibited a lower incidence of toxigenic fungi. A. welwitschiae was the main ochratoxin A (OTA)-associated species detected, although the proportion of OTA-positive figs was lower in elicitor-treated samples than in the control. Aflatoxins (AFs) were detected only sporadically in 2 mM OA treatments, consistent with the limited activity of A. flavus at low storage temperatures. Conversely, Penicillium spp. were widespread but were associated with citrinin (CIT) production only under 2 mM OA treatments. Among the Alternaria toxins, alternariol (AOH) was detected solely in dried figs treated with 1 mM OA. Notably, all investigated mycotoxins were below the limit of detection (<LOD) in dried figs treated with 0.5 mM MT. Moderate elicitor concentrations (e.g., 0.5 mM MT and 50 mM GABA) and multiple preharvest applications generally provided the best balance between fungal suppression and fruit quality, significantly reducing Aspergillus spp. occurrence without promoting the growth of undesirable species. Overall, elicitor treatments decreased the incidence of toxigenic fungi, most likely through direct antifungal effects in senescent dried fruit rather than by inducing host defences. The combined use of preharvest elicitors with appropriate drying and storage conditions is a promising strategy to control fungal contamination and mycotoxin accumulation in dried figs while maintaining quality from preharvest storage. Further research is needed to optimise elicitor concentrations and application timing.

Wheat grain deterioration during storage poses a critical threat to food security, primarily driven by fungal succession and mycotoxin contamination. In this study, we simulated high-humidity (97%) and warm (28°C) storage conditions to characterize the dynamics of bacterial and fungal communities and their correlation with mycotoxin production. We identified three distinct phases of mycotoxin accumulation: a non-toxigenic early stage (D0-D6), an AFB1-only middle stage (D15-D25), and a multi-mycotoxin late stage (D35-D50) characterized by the co-occurrence of AFB1, ZEN, and DON. High-throughput sequencing revealed a pronounced simplification of the microbial ecosystem. Bacterial communities shifted from diverse Pseudomonadota (formerly Proteobacteria)and Firmicutes to a near-monoculture of Actinobacteriota (reaching 99.96% dominance), within the phylum Actinobacteriota, a succession from Saccharopolyspora to Streptomyces also occurred. Fungal communities transitioned from field fungi (Alternaria) to storage molds (Aspergillus), followed by xerophilic taxa (Pithoascus and Microascus). Notably, the emergence of DON at D35 coincided with a transient, specific increase in Fusarium relative abundance (1.37%). Co-occurrence network analysis demonstrated a sharp collapse in ecological connectivity, distinguishing the complex networks of mycotoxin-negative samples from the fragmented structures observed in mycotoxin-positive stages. Functional prediction further indicated a convergence towards saprotrophic lifestyles. These findings demonstrate that mycotoxin co-contamination is a system-level outcome of specific bacterial and fungal successionand ecological network destabilization, providing valuable biomarkers for early warning of grain spoilage.

Climate change is intensifying ecological instability in agricultural ecosystems, altering pest distribution and increasing the risk of fungal contamination and mycotoxin accumulation in crops. Among emerging threats, the invasive brown marmorated stink bug Halyomorpha halys has rapidly expanded across Europe, including Croatia. The species is polyphagous, and in the ripening of most plant crops, it accounts for a significant population and causes extensive plant damage. This study investigates the capacity of H. halys to disseminate mycotoxigenic fungi, with an emphasis on aflatoxin B1 (AFB1) and ochratoxin A (OTA) producers. One hundred adult H. halys individuals were collected from maize ears in Osijek, Croatia, in August 2023. Fungal propagules washed from their surfaces were inoculated on PDA and MEA media. A total of 212 pure fungal cultures were obtained, of which 202 belonged to the genera Aspergillus and Penicillium. Molecular identification using β-tubulin (BenA) gene sequencing revealed six Aspergillus and six Penicillium species, forming two well-supported phylogenetic clades. Aspergillus parasiticus was the most dominant species. Mycotoxin screening confirmed AFB1 production in 20 isolates, all identified as A. parasiticus, while no OTA-producing strains were detected. The predominance of aflatoxigenic species on H. halys indicates that it may play a previously underrecognized role in the dispersal of mycotoxigenic fungi in agroecosystems.

Peanuts (also known as groundnuts; Arachis hypogaea L.) are a globally significant cash crop but are highly susceptible to fungal contamination, particularly by Aspergillus section Flavi, which can contaminate the product with mycotoxins, including aflatoxins. This contamination poses serious food safety concerns, especially in low- and middle-income countries, limiting access to international markets. This study assessed the efficacy of slow-release SO2-bags compared to plastic bags (control) in reducing fungal growth and mycotoxin contamination in stored unshelled peanuts. Naturally contaminated and Aspergillus flavus-inoculated peanuts were stored at water activity (aw) levels of 0.85 and 0.95 for 15 days at 25°C. Fungal populations were monitored, and aflatoxins and cyclopiazonic acid were analysed using LC-MS/MS qTRAP. SO2-releasing bags completely inhibited fungal growth in naturally contaminated peanuts and significantly reduced A. flavus population with effectiveness dependent on water activity. Additionally, SO2-releasing bags suppressed mycotoxin production. This study demonstrates, for the first time, the effectiveness of SO2-releasing bags in preventing fungal spoilage and mycotoxin contamination in postharvest peanuts, offering a promising solution for enhancing peanut safety and quality.

Eukaryotic messenger RNA (mRNA) homeostasis requires precise coordination between synthesis and decay, yet the mechanisms governing this balance in fungal pathogens remain elusive. Here we provide a comprehensive characterization of the Lsm1-7 complex in the cereal pathogen Fusarium graminearum. We show that Lsm1-7 assembles into a conserved hetero-heptameric module that localizes to processing bodies (P-bodies) and is required for fungal growth, virulence, and mycotoxin biosynthesis. Mechanistically, Lsm1-7/Pat1 binds U/A-rich 3' termini of a defined set of transcripts enriched for central metabolism and restrains their 3'-5' decay. Genetic suppressor analyses and mechanistic dissection identify two parallel decay routes antagonized by Lsm1-7, including the exosome recruited by the uridyltransferase Cid1 and the Ski-exosome complex mediated by the newly identified scaffold protein Lsp1. Moreover, loss of Lsm1-7 elicits a compensatory transcriptional response involving the Rpd3L (Sin3) histone deacetylase complex, in which elevated histone H4 acetylation at affected loci partially restores transcript output. Together, our results define an integrated cytoplasmic-nuclear regulatory axis inF. graminearum that couples 3'-end protection to chromatin-based transcriptional buffering to maintain mRNA homeostasis. While Lsp1 appears lineage-adapted, the underlying logic may reflect a broader principle of gene-expression buffering that supports fungal fitness and pathogenicity.

The Asian elephant (Elephas maximus) has experienced severe population decline across its range due to poaching, habitat loss, fragmentation, and escalating human–elephant conflict (HEC). In Central India, HEC has intensified over the past two decades as elephants expand westward into increasingly fragmented landscapes dominated by smallholder agriculture. In this context, the tragic death of ten elephants near Bandhavgarh Tiger Reserve in October 2024 highlights an emerging and underappreciated conservation risk linked to agricultural mycotoxins. Clinical investigations established kodo millet (Paspalum scrobiculatum) poisoning, implicating cyclopiazonic acid (CPA), a fungal mycotoxin produced by Aspergillus species, as the cause of mortality. This study examines the Bandhavgarh incident to understand its ecological, agronomic, and conservation implications. We situate kodo millet within its historical and contemporary agronomic context, emphasizing its prevalence in marginal, rain-fed landscapes adjoining elephant habitats, where crop-raiding is frequent. We review the long-standing documentation of kodo millet toxicity in humans, its association with fungal contamination during wet-harvest conditions, and its relevance to wildlife health. We argue that small, fragmented elephant populations in Central India are particularly vulnerable to such episodic risks. We further discuss, how increasingly erratic monsoons and heavy rainfall events, may elevate fungal proliferation and mycotoxin exposure in staple crops. To mitigate these risks, we outline integrated management strategies encompassing biological control agents, weather-based disease forecasting, field surveillance, and improved post-harvest drying and storage. We also acknowledge scientific and operational constraints in deploying biological controls, including environmental variability, strain persistence, and formulation stability. We emphasize that safeguarding elephants in Central India requires an integrated approach linking agricultural safety, landscape connectivity, and HEC management. Strengthening corridors, improving crop management, and embedding wildlife health into land-use planning are essential to prevent similar tragedies and promote long-term coexistence between people and elephants in a rapidly changing landscape.

Fusarium graminearum, the causal agent of Fusarium head blight (FHB), poses a major threat to global food security by contaminating cereals with the mycotoxin deoxynivalenol (DON). Although transcriptional and protein-level regulation of its stress response and virulence has been extensively studied, the functional significance of mRNA processing in these critical processes remains largely unexplored. Here, we identify Lsm8, a highly conserved core subunit of the nuclear Lsm2-8 complex, as a pivotal regulator linking RNA splicing fidelity to fungal growth, stress adaptation, and virulence. Deletion of LSM8 disrupted Lsm2-8 assembly and nuclear localization, resulting in widespread intron retention in genes essential for stress signaling (HOG1, ATF1), development (GPA1, STE12), and trichothecene biosynthesis. Consequently, osmoadaptation was impaired, sexual reproduction was abolished, and both DON production and virulence were drastically reduced. We further demonstrate that intron-retained transcripts are predominantly degraded by the RNA exosome, revealing a conserved Lsm8-exosome module that maintains splicing fidelity and RNA surveillance. Given the deep evolutionary conservation of Lsm8 across eukaryotes, these findings uncover a fundamental post-transcriptional regulatory layer governing fungal stress response, virulence, and mycotoxin biosynthesis, and highlight RNA-processing factors as universal determinants of virulence and promising antifungal targets across eukaryotic pathogens.

Fungal contamination of meat and meat products represents a significant concern for food safety, particularly due to the potential presence of mycotoxin-producing moulds. This scoping review aimed to map the occurrence and distribution of Aspergillus and Penicillium species along the meat production chain, from slaughterhouse environments to retail products, and to identify associated mycotoxins when reported. A systematic literature search was conducted in the PubMed database, complemented by a search in Google Scholar in accordance with Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews for Scoping Reviews (PRISMA-ScR) guidelines. Eligible studies reported the isolation of Aspergillus and/or Penicillium species from meat, meat products, or meat-processing environments under natural contamination conditions. The results indicate that both genera are frequently detected throughout the production chain, particularly at processing and storage stages, with several studies reporting species known for mycotoxin production. In addition, the presence of these moulds in processing environments highlights potential implications for both food safety and occupational exposure. However, information on mould occurrence in meat, edible offal, meat products and meat processing environments remains scarce, fragmented and heterogeneous. Overall, this review highlights existing knowledge gaps and underscores the need for harmonised monitoring strategies and further research addressing fungal contamination and mycotoxin risks along the meat production chain.

Molecular markers in diagnostics of fungi and fungal mycotoxins: A narrative review.