A new study suggests that some widely eaten snack foods, including popcorn and corn chips, may raise exposure to mycotoxins, toxic compounds produced by certain molds. Researchers reported that higher intake of corn and grain products was associated with higher mycotoxin levels in urine samples.
The research focused on pregnant women, a group often studied closely because chemical and food exposures can have added health importance during pregnancy. According to the findings described in the report, participants who ate more corn- and grain-based foods showed greater evidence of mycotoxin exposure.
Mycotoxins have been linked to a range of health concerns, including a higher risk of cancer and other medical problems. The study does not mean that eating a single serving of popcorn or chips will cause illness, but it adds to concerns about how common processed foods may contribute to ongoing low-level toxin exposure over time.
The findings highlight the role diet can play in exposure to contaminants that are difficult for consumers to detect. Researchers say the results point to the need for continued attention to food safety, especially for products made from corn and other grains that may be more vulnerable to mold-related toxins.
