Overview
- Researchers tested 212 plant-based products sold in the UK and found at least one of 19 mycotoxins in every item.
- Samples covered popular substitutes such as vegan burgers, vegetarian chicken pieces, sausages, and oat, almond, and soy drinks.
- Contamination levels were below current EU guideline limits, which the authors said reflects strong food-safety controls.
- Mycotoxins are fungal toxins that can form on grains, legumes, and seeds during growing and storage, and frequent intake over time can raise health risks including liver, kidney, and immune damage.
- The team called for wider raw-material checks and clearer rules for new multi-ingredient products, and they are modeling dietary exposure to inform policymakers and guide vulnerable consumers.