The MICOTOSSINE module includes lectures and laboratory exercises. Fungal species capable of producing toxins that can be found in food and that are harmful to humans and animals will be considered. The pathological aspects that can be caused to humans and animals, as well as the maximum limits for the presence of these toxins (imposed by the European Community) for the marketing of raw materials and products derived from them will be addressed.
After an introduction on the main characteristics of filamentous fungi and their taxonomic classification, some plant diseases of agricultural interest caused by mycotoxigenic fungi will be analyzed, in particular those caused by Fusarium species. The various toxins produced by Fusarium, Aspergillus, Penicillium and Alternaria will be listed.