Mycotoxins Explained: Health Effects, Testing & Safe Remediation
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At Odor Supply House, we believe healthy air should never be an afterthought. As part of our mission, we draw from the expertise of our parent company, Stat Sanitizing, a New York State licensed mold assessment and remediation firm with years of experience tackling complex mold problems.
But our services go deeper than just mold. Mold often produces mycotoxins, toxic compounds that can linger in the environment even after the visible mold is gone. That’s why Stat Sanitizing is also a certified provider of Respirare Labs mycotoxin testing, allowing us to detect and identify these hidden toxins with precision.
In this blog, we’ll break down what mycotoxins are, the most common types and their health effects, how they affect both people and pets, why not everyone reacts the same, how to test for them, and what it takes to remediate them properly.
What Are Mycotoxins?
Mycotoxins are toxic secondary metabolites produced by certain molds (fungi). Unlike spores, which are the reproductive particles of mold, mycotoxins are chemical byproducts that can linger in your environment even after the mold colony is removed.
They’re resistant to heat, light, and many common cleaners, meaning they can bind to surfaces, fabrics, HVAC systems, and dust particles, remaining a hidden hazard in homes, offices, and other buildings.
The Most Common Mycotoxins and Their Health Concerns
Not all molds produce mycotoxins, but the ones that do can release compounds with serious health implications. Here are some of the most common mycotoxins found in indoor environments:
1. Aflatoxins
- Produced by: Aspergillus flavus and Aspergillus parasiticus
- Where Found: Moist grains, nuts, and occasionally in building materials with heavy mold growth.
- Health Concerns: Known carcinogen, particularly linked to liver cancer. Can also cause immune suppression, digestive issues, and developmental problems with long-term exposure.
2. Ochratoxin A (OTA)
- Produced by: Aspergillus and Penicillium species
- Where Found: Water-damaged homes, improperly stored food, and damp building materials.
- Health Concerns: Damages the kidneys and liver, suppresses the immune system, and has been associated with neurological effects including cognitive decline.
3. Trichothecenes (including T-2 toxin and satratoxins)
- Produced by: Stachybotrys chartarum (often called “black mold”) and Fusarium species
- Where Found: Water-damaged drywall, wallpaper, insulation, and ceiling tiles.
- Health Concerns: Extremely toxic. Causes skin irritation, immune suppression, gastrointestinal distress, and neurological symptoms such as dizziness and confusion. Prolonged exposure can be severely damaging.
4. Fumonisins
- Produced by: Fusarium species
- Where Found: Water-damaged building materials, corn, and cereal products.
- Health Concerns: Associated with esophageal cancer, liver and kidney toxicity, and potential nervous system effects.
5. Zearalenone (ZEN)
- Produced by: Fusarium species
- Where Found: Damp grains and occasionally contaminated building dust.
Health Concerns: Known for its hormone-disrupting effects, especially on estrogen balance, which can cause reproductive health issues in both humans and animals.
Health Effects of Mycotoxins on Humans
While different mycotoxins target different organs and systems, common effects include:
- Respiratory issues – chronic cough, wheezing, sinus congestion
- Neurological symptoms – headaches, brain fog, memory problems, mood changes
- Digestive issues – nausea, abdominal discomfort, loss of appetite
- Immune suppression – frequent colds, flu-like symptoms, or autoimmune flare-ups
- Organ damage – liver and kidney stress, especially with aflatoxins and ochratoxin A
- Hormonal disruption – particularly with zearalenone exposure
Because symptoms often overlap with other conditions, mycotoxin exposure can be overlooked until proper testing is done.
Why Not Everyone Reacts the Same to Mycotoxins
One of the biggest reasons mycotoxin-related illness is missed or dismissed is that people respond very differently to exposure. In the same home, one person may feel chronically ill while another barely notices symptoms.
Several factors influence these differences:
- Genetic Predispositions: Certain gene variations, especially those linked to detoxification pathways (like MTHFR or HLA types), can make some people more sensitive.
- Underlying Health Conditions: People with asthma, autoimmune disease, Lyme disease, or compromised immunity may react more strongly.
- Previous Exposure History: Past mold or chemical exposures can “prime” the body, making it more reactive the next time.
- Gender Differences: Research suggests women may be more affected by hormone-disrupting mycotoxins such as zearalenone.
- Age: Children and the elderly often have less resilience to environmental toxins.
This variability is why mycotoxin problems are often overlooked as environmental causes—symptoms don’t always affect everyone equally. But ignoring it can leave the more vulnerable members of a household or workplace suffering.
Mycotoxins and Pets
Pets often spend more time in areas close to contaminated surfaces—carpets, furniture, and floors—making them especially vulnerable.
Signs of Mycotoxin Exposure in Pets:
- Vomiting, diarrhea, or refusal to eat
- Tremors or seizures in severe cases
- Fatigue or unusual behavior changes
- Skin irritation, constant scratching, or fur loss
Veterinarians often see mycotoxin poisoning in livestock and pets through contaminated food, but environmental exposure in homes is an increasing concern.
How to Test for Mycotoxins
Through Respirare Labs, Stat Sanitizing offers advanced environmental mycotoxin testing that identifies and measures these toxins.
The process includes:
- Sampling – Air and surface samples are collected from areas of concern.
- Laboratory Analysis – Sensitive technology detects specific mycotoxins.
- Detailed Reporting – You receive a clear breakdown of which toxins were found and at what levels.
- Action Plan – Based on results, Stat Sanitizing designs a remediation strategy to eliminate the contamination.
This approach provides data-driven answers, not assumptions.
How to Remediate or Remove Mycotoxins
Because of their chemical stability, mycotoxins require specialized remediation strategies:
- Source Removal – Eliminate the underlying mold growth.
- Specialized Cleaning – Professional-grade products designed to neutralize toxins. For ongoing maintenance, enzyme cleaners help break down organic residues.
- Air Filtration – Use HEPA + activated carbon purifiers to capture spores and chemical compounds. The Aspen Air Purifier contains more than 3 lbs of carbon, making it ideal for this task.
- Surface Decontamination – Non-porous surfaces can be treated, but porous materials like carpet or drywall may need to be replaced. Probiotic cleaners can help restore healthy microbial balance.
- Environmental Control – Keep humidity below 50%, repair leaks quickly, and maintain your HVAC systems to prevent re-contamination.
Why Work With Stat Sanitizing + Odor Supply House?
- Expertise: Stat Sanitizing is licensed by New York State for mold assessment and remediation.
- Science-Backed: Respirare Labs provides reliable, cutting-edge testing.
- Supportive Solutions: Odor Supply House offers air purifiers, enzymes, probiotics, and HVAC care products to maintain cleaner air after remediation.
Together, we give you the tools and services to not only fix a mycotoxin problem but also prevent it from returning.
Take Control of Your Indoor Environment
Whether you’re dealing with visible mold, unexplained health symptoms, or simply want peace of mind, mycotoxin testing and remediation can make a life-changing difference.
✅ Stat Sanitizing – Licensed assessment & remediation
✅ Respirare Labs – Certified mycotoxin testing
✅ Odor Supply House – Products to protect long-term indoor air quality
Take action today: