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Heather A. Clark, PhD and Suzanne M. Snedeker, PhD. Sprecher Institute for Comparative Cancer Research, Program on Breast Cancer and Environmental Risk Factors (BCERF), Cornell University, College of Veterinary Medicine, Box 31, Ithaca, NY 14853-6401, 607-255-5940, hac4@cornell.edu
The Cornell Program on Breast Cancer and Environmental Risk Factors (BCERF) critically reviewed the available data on the cancer risk posed by the mycotoxin and food contaminant, ochratoxin-A (OTA). Compared to the well-known aflatoxins, OTA has received relatively little attention. In long-term cancer animal bioassays performed by the National Toxicology Program (NTP, 1989), female rats exposed orally to OTA had significantly increased incidence of mammary tumors (fibroadenomas) and tumors of the kidney. OTA has been found in animals and humans, including in tissues, blood and human breast milk. Accumulation of OTA in the mammary gland of rabbits has also been observed. Few studies to date have evaluated the cancer risk of OTA in human populations. Formed by storage fungi in both temperate (Penicillium) and tropical (Aspergillus) climates, OTA makes its way into a variety of foods and beverages, in particular, cereal grains. It is also found in wine, coffee, juices, cocoa, spices, dried fruit, pork, poultry and dairy products. Most available data on OTA occurrence are from Europe and North America. Large data gaps exist for OTA levels in commodities from other parts of the world. The US Food and Drug Administration (FDA) as well as other food safety agencies internationally are currently promulgating standards for OTA in domestic and imported commodities. Current and proposed regulatory limits, as well as best farm management practices are discussed as relevant to mitigating OTA’s public health risk.
Learning Objectives: At the conclusion of this session, the participant learner in this session will be able to
Presenting author's disclosure statement:
I do not have any significant financial interest/arrangement or affiliation with any organization/institution whose products or services are being discussed in this session.