Question

Aflatoxin, a dangerous natural toxin found in moldy peanuts, is produced by:

• A. Aspergillus flavus
• B. Clostridium perfringens
• C. Lactococcus lactis
• D. Rhizopus stolonifer

Hint:

Remember: Aflatoxin = Aspergillus flavus. It’s a toxic mold mostly found in stored peanuts, grains, and nuts under warm, humid conditions.

Answer 1

The Correct Option is A

Aflatoxins are highly toxic and carcinogenic compounds produced by certain molds, especially Aspergillus flavus and Aspergillus parasiticus.
These molds commonly grow on improperly stored grains and legumes, such as peanuts, maize, and tree nuts in warm and humid environments.
Among them, Aspergillus flavus is notorious for contaminating food supplies with aflatoxins — particularly aflatoxin B₁, which is one of the most potent naturally occurring carcinogens.
Review of incorrect options:
- Clostridium perfringens causes gas gangrene and food poisoning but does not produce aflatoxins.
- Lactococcus lactis is a beneficial bacterium used in dairy fermentation (cheese, buttermilk).
- Rhizopus stolonifer is a bread mold, not associated with aflatoxin production.
Thus, aflatoxin contamination is primarily linked to Aspergillus flavus.