Primary and secondary mycotoxicosis

Abstract

Primary Mycotoxicosis in man and beast is caused by the ingestion of fungal poisons in food, beverages and feed. When mould‐damaged feed is fed to livestock the mycotoxins pass into the meat, milk, eggs and poultry. The consumption of these products laden with sublethal doses of mycotoxins eventually leads to Secondary Mycotoxicosis. The whole subject of Secondary Mycotoxicosis has been sadly neglected by health authorities, as if it were a political issue too hot to touch and one that may conveniently disappear if ignored. The paper is based on extensive experience in India and Sweden. It discusses peasant methods of preventing and curing mycotoxicosis. It suggests that spoilage and wastage, not shortage, are the reasons for hunger and famine. It calls for official action.