A recent survey conducted by the German Federal Institute for Risk Assessment (BfR) has shed light on the inadequate awareness among consumers in Germany regarding natural plant toxins.
The survey, which polled 1,012 individuals in August 2023, uncovered that only 47 percent of respondents were cognizant of the existence of plant toxic substances. Moreover, the BfR Consumer Monitor special edition on naturally occurring plant toxins disclosed that 27 percent of participants expressed concern about this particular risk.
Natural toxins, commonly found in various foods, are chemical compounds deployed by plants to deter predators such as insects or microorganisms. Products like beans and potatoes may harbor these substances, which can potentially pose health hazards if consumed.
For instance, solanine in potatoes, particularly in green or sprouting parts, presents increased concentrations of this toxin. Similarly, certain types of beans contain lectins, which, when inadequately prepared, can induce illness. However, in many instances, heating the food adequately renders these natural toxins harmless.
Professor Andreas Hensel, President of the BfR, emphasized the survey’s findings, stating, “The survey results underscore a tendency to underestimate risks of natural origin, while overestimating risks of synthetic origin.”
Concerns regarding residues in food, stemming from plant protection products, and contaminants like heavy metals, were highlighted by 63 and 62 percent of respondents, respectively.
When queried about foods containing naturally occurring plant toxins, participants frequently mentioned potatoes, tomatoes, raw beans, and mushrooms. However, over half of the respondents admitted to feeling poorly informed about plant toxins in food, with only eight percent considering themselves well-informed.
Regarding specific plant toxins found in food, more than 60 percent were aware of morphine and opiates, while 31 percent had knowledge of coumarin, and 26 percent were familiar with solanine. In contrast, a mere four percent were acquainted with pyrrolizidine alkaloids.
In addressing moldy food, the BfR cautioned that even minimal amounts of mold toxins can jeopardize human and animal health, advising complete disposal of moldy jam. However, 25 percent of respondents admitted to merely removing the affected portion.
For moldy berries, the recommended practice of discarding both the affected and surrounding fruit was followed by only 60 percent of respondents. Similarly, more than 40 percent opted to remove only the moldy section of vegetables. The majority of individuals discarded moldy yogurt and bread.
In a related development, the BfR is set to host a symposium on aquatic toxins on June 10 and 11, 2024. The National Reference Laboratory (NRL) for the monitoring of marine biotoxins at BfR has convened national and international aquatic toxin experts in Berlin.
One such toxin of concern is ciguatoxin, with ciguatera poisoning, although rare in Germany, occurring due to the consumption of imported tropical fish. The symposium will address various topics, including the ciguatera outbreak situation in the country.
Additionally, discussions on the detection and management of ovatoxin-a, a toxin prevalent in mussels, and other toxins in salt and fresh water are scheduled. Notable speakers, including Jonathan R. Deeds from the U.S. Food and Drug Administration, will provide insights into the effects of palytoxins on humans and animals.
The symposium aims to facilitate the exchange of scientific knowledge to enhance understanding of aquatic toxins. Experts will explore potential health risks posed by such toxins to humans, their impact on aquatic organisms, and strategies to mitigate these risks. Presenters from New Zealand, Italy, Spain, Canada, and France will contribute to the comprehensive discussions.
