The awareness about mycotoxin contamination of food and feed: a survey in the Flemish population

The objective of this quantitative survey (n=520) was to determine the awareness of the risks of mycotoxin contaminated food and feed throughout the Flemish population. The study highlighted gaps in food and feed safety knowledge regarding mould growth and consequently the presence of mycotoxins. Most people were aware of the negative effects of mould species in food or feed. Around 60% of the people picked out moulds as the producers of mycotoxins, but the majority did not have an idea about the toxicity of these toxins, especially towards plants. Respondents were also asked about possible food products where mould growth could occur and who is responsible for guarding the safety of food and feed with respect to moulds and mycotoxins. All answers and considerations are presented and discussed. Education on mycotoxins should be the focus of the whole population in the near future.