Toxins from seafood, mushrooms and molds present the greatest potential for Chemical Contamination
Further Explanation
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Chemical contamination</em> happens when compounds are present in food that can cause illness or injury. It can occur in food production and processing at any stage. When chemicals are not controlled then potential risk to consumers increases.
Chemical present in food may not always be dangerous however the amount present will tell if it will pose danger or not. Some chemical may need exposure over a period of time before it poses a toxic effect.
Chemical contaminants can be categorized into three:
- Naturally occurring chemicals
- Intentionally added chemicals
- Unintentionally or incidentally added chemicals.
Toxins from seafood, mushrooms and molds will fall under naturally occurring chemicals category of contaminants or hazards.
<em>Naturally Occurring Chemicals</em> are chemicals originated from various plants, animals or microorganisms. Mostly these chemical are already present prior to or during harvest. Although these naturally occurring toxins are biological in nature, they are traditionally categorized as chemical hazards due to the way it occur and the way food handlers treat it once detected.
Why considered contaminant?
<em>Seafood</em> – certain species of seafood produce an allergic reaction to individual who are sensitive to an allergen. When an allergen (protein) reacts with the immune system of an individual who is sensitive to allergen, allergic reaction will occur. Also certain species of fish (e.g., tuna) when it gets spoiled can result in production of toxic levels of histamine and related compounds.
<em>Molds</em> - molds that grow on certain food like corn can create toxins (aflatoxins)
<em>Mushroom</em> – certain fungi can produce toxins after ingestion
Learn more
- Food hazard brainly.com/question/4254210
- Food safety brainly.com/question/4226085
- Allergen brainly.com/question/10558783
Keywords: Chemical contamination, Allergen, Toxins