Mycotoxin

A mycotoxin is a highly toxic compound produced by a fungus or mold. Mycotoxins are dangerous to humans, animals and plants. Mold, and any toxins produced, can infest cannabis before harvest or during storage or transport. They can also develop directly on edible products. Mycotoxins are a by-product of mold growth that can remain toxic and invisible even after cannabis has been processed.

Jurisdictions where medical or adult-use cannabis is regulated tend to require analytical laboratory testing for the two main mycotoxins found in cannabis, aflatoxins and ochratoxins. Aflatoxins, normally found in soil, are among the most harmful. Ochratoxins, produced by the molds Penicillium species and Aspergillus, are common contaminants in the food chain. Laboratories indicate the quantity of mycotoxins detected in micrograms per kilogram (µg/kg).

Exposure to mycotoxins does not generally lead to death, but rather damages internal organs and the immune system when cannabis users are exposed to small, regular doses over time. This can be particularly harmful for medical cannabis patients with organ damage, kidney or liver cancer, or a weakened immune system.