Zearalenone

Zearalenone is a mycotoxin produced by Fusarium species, such as Fusarium graminearum and Fusarium culmorum. It is commonly found in cereals like corn, wheat, barley, and oats, and can also be present in other agricultural products. This toxin is known for its estrogenic activity, which can interfere with hormone balance in both humans and animals.

Zearalenone is recognized for its potential to disrupt endocrine function. In animals, it can cause reproductive issues such as infertility, abortion, and changes in reproductive organs. In humans, prolonged exposure to zearalenone can potentially lead to hormonal imbalances and related health issues.

To ensure consumer safety, regulatory limits for zearalenone are strictly enforced. In the EU, the maximum allowable levels are set at 100 µg/kg for unprocessed cereals and 20 µg/kg for cereal-based baby foods. These limits are specified in EU Regulation 2023/915, which outlines the permissible levels of mycotoxins in food and feed to safeguard public health.

Given the risks associated with zearalenone, it is essential to regularly test food and feed for contamination. Effective monitoring helps in mitigating risks and ensuring compliance with safety regulations.

Zearalenone is notable for its stability in processed foods, which means it can persist through various food processing methods, making accurate testing essential to prevent contamination.

An overview of all available aokin zearalenone products can be found here.

Chemical formula forZearalenone C₁₈H₂₂O₅
Molecular Weight: 318,36 g/mol