Russian scientists warn against excessive consumption of tomato juice due to the presence of harmful toxins.

Under the guidance of Viktor Tutelyan, the head of the Department of Nutrition Hygiene and Toxicology at the Sechenov University Institute of Professional Education and a member of the Russian Academy of Sciences, researchers conducted a study for the first time in Russia, revealing a high concentration of specific toxins produced by mold in certain food products.

The focus is on the metabolites of mold fungi from the genus Alternaria, which are widely found in nature. They enter plants from the soil and subsequently make their way into the human body through plant-derived products.

There are various technical regulations and Sanitary Standards (SanPins) concerning some types of mold fungi that may be present in food. However, no regulations regarding the levels of alternariol toxins in food products have been established anywhere in the world, despite their potential health risks, as noted by Russian scientists.

Research is already underway. For instance, foreign experiments have shown that the consumption of alternariol toxins can lead to vomiting, diarrhea, and, in some cases, internal bleeding. Of course, this occurs only with the intake of large quantities of toxins. Generally, mycotoxins are introduced into the body in relatively small amounts over an extended period.

However, Russian scientists aimed to identify which products have the highest levels of alternariol toxins. Specifically, they sought to determine what should not be consumed in large quantities.

The highest levels of toxins were found in tomato juice, as well as in tomato paste. Lower levels were detected in barley, oats, wheat, apples, sunflower seeds, sesame seeds, and spices (such as chili pepper, paprika, and ginger).

The researchers emphasize the need for hygienic regulations regarding the levels of priority alternariol toxins in food products. To achieve this, further studies are necessary, including clarifying the doses that may pose health risks to humans.

In the meantime, it is advisable not to overindulge in tomato juice—it's not wise to drink it by the liter every day. This advice applies to any food product, even the most beneficial ones.