Aflatoxin
A toxin from moulds that can grow on poorly dried chillies, nutmeg and other spices.
Also: mould toxin, mycotoxin, ochratoxin, spice mould
Aflatoxins are poisons made by Aspergillus moulds that grow on poorly dried or damp-stored crops. Chillies, nutmeg, ginger, black pepper and groundnuts are commonly tested. The danger is greatest where spice is dried on bare ground in humid weather, or stored wet. Many countries set strict limits, such as the European Union's rules in parts per billion, and shipments above the limit are rejected. Good practice includes drying quickly to low moisture, raised drying beds, clean packing, dry warehouses and testing. Aflatoxin is not destroyed by cooking. Reliable origin, sealed containers and discarding any mouldy or musty spice are the best defences at home.