Spores and Toxins- Toxins

Toxins

Like any living organism, bacteria also have its waste products and this is referred as toxins.

• They survive through high and low temperatures, salty conditions and even in the absence of air.
• They lead to food poisoning.

Toxins are poisons which can be deadly such as that produced by Clostridium botulinum. The verocytotoxin produced by E. Coli 0157 H7 and similar strands causes damage to the kidneys and intestine which may result in death especially among most vulnerable. Seafoods can also contain dangerous toxins, one of which may cause paralysis. Shellfish such as mussels feed on smaller animals that produces toxin.

Plants can contain toxins and toxins are produced by moulds. These toxins include aflatoxin, which can seriously harm the liver. Such toxins are found in cereals and dried fruits that have been poorly stored.