Mold Toxins in Your Food Are Linked to Cancer
NonToxCo Research
Science & Safety Team · 4/6/2026
The mold that grows on grains, nuts, and dried fruits produces mycotoxins that act as carcinogens. They don't just poison you. They change your DNA expression in ways that promote cancer.
What the Review Found
A 2026 review on foodborne mycotoxins details how these mold-produced chemicals function as both molecular and epigenetic carcinogens. They damage DNA directly and also change how genes are expressed through epigenetic modifications. Both pathways lead to cancer.
Common mycotoxins include aflatoxins (from peanuts and corn), ochratoxin A (from coffee and wine), and fumonisins (from corn). Aflatoxin B1 is one of the most potent natural carcinogens known.
Where Mycotoxins Hide
Grains, peanuts, tree nuts, dried fruits, coffee, wine, beer, and spices can all contain mycotoxins. Improper storage (warm, humid conditions) makes contamination worse. Processing doesn't always remove them.
What You Can Do
Store grains and nuts in cool, dry conditions. Buy from reputable sources. Check nuts and dried fruits for visible mold. Vary your diet so you're not over-relying on any one grain or nut. Discard any food that looks or smells moldy.
Browse our non-toxic kitchen alternatives for proper food storage.
Also see glass food containers for safer alternatives.