Identifying and Mitigating Exposure Risks to Mold and Mycotoxins

The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) reports that as molds grow, some, but not all, may produce potentially toxic byproducts called mycotoxins under various conditions. Some of these molds are also commonly found in moisture-damaged buildings, according to the agency.

EPA goes on to share that more than 200 mycotoxins from common molds have been identified, and many more remain to be identified. The amount and types of mycotoxins produced by a particular mold depends on many environmental and genetic factors.

Regarding potential health effects of exposure to mycotoxins, EPA states the following:

Some mycotoxins are known to affect people, but for many mycotoxins little health information is available. Research on mycotoxins is ongoing. Exposure to mycotoxins can occur from inhalation, ingestion and skin contact. It is prudent to avoid unnecessary inhalation exposure to mold.

“No one can tell whether a mold is producing mycotoxins just by looking at it, but there are ways to test for them,” said Jason Dobranic, Ph.D., Vice President of Microbiology and Life Sciences at EMSL Analytical, Inc. “It’s important to note that mycotoxins have been studied more extensively as they relate to food contamination and ingestion. For example, one type known as aflatoxins have action levels for them published by the U.S. Food & Drug Administration. They even warn that regularly eating foods with aflatoxins can increase one’s risk of liver cancer, cause birth defects, and lead to kidney and immune system problems. Regarding inhalation exposure risks to mycotoxins, more research is needed to fully understand potential health effects for building occupants in moldy environments.”

To identify exposure risks to mold and mycotoxins in food products or the built environment, the scientists at EMSL Analytical offer comprehensive testing services, sampling supplies, inspection tools and other supporting resources. They even recently sponsored an educational video about mycotoxins and mold that can be seen at: https://youtu.be/4i6cq2fsoYM

To learn more about mold, mycotoxins or other microbial testing resources, please visit www.EMSL.com, email info@EMSL.com or call (800) 220-3675. To access mold test kits, visit www.EMSLTestKits.com.

About EMSL Analytical, Inc.

EMSL Analytical is one of the leading testing laboratories with locations throughout the United States and Canada. EMSL is a nationally recognized and locally focused provider specializing in fast laboratory results for mold, bacteria, Legionella, USP 797, pathogens, asbestos, lead, soot, char & ash from fires, VOCs, odors, radon, formaldehyde, indoor air quality, microbiology, environmental, industrial hygiene, radiological, food, beverage & consumer products and material testing services for the identification of unknown substances. EMSL services both professionals and the general public. EMSL maintains an extensive list of accreditations from leading organizations as well as state and federal regulating bodies including, but not limited to A2LA, AIHA LAP, LLC. (AIHA EMLAP, AIHA IHLAP, AIHA ELLAP), NVLAP, CDC ELITE, CPSC, CA ELAP, NY ELAP, TX DOH, NJDEP and multiple other state accrediting agencies. Please visit our website at www.EMSL.com for a complete listing of accreditations. In addition, EMSL carries a wide range of Sampling Equipment and Investigative Products for environmental professionals.

Contact Information

Joseph Frasca

Senior Vice President of Marketing

EMSL Analytical, Inc.

(1) 856-303-2503

Contact via E-mail