Plant-based diets and grocery products have taken the world by storm the past few years, but a recent study indicates that there’s more to your veggie burger than just plants.
The UK study published in Food Control concluded that of the 212 plant-based products tested, all of them contained at least one mycotoxin — a toxic compound naturally produced by molds. The tests included a wide range of products including dairy-free milks and alternative meats made with soy, oat and nuts.
Most of the toxin levels were within the UK limits, but many of the products tested contained more than one toxin, the highest levels found in plant-based meat substitutes. Oat-based drinks also contained higher levels of certain grain-related toxins.
The researchers say there’s no reason to panic as mycotoxins are found in many common food products like coffee and spices, but as the plant-based food industry grows, it does highlight the need for manufacturers and regulators to pay closer attention to testing and food safety.
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