Aflatoxin in Peanuts & Peanut Butter And Liver Cancer

Between 5 and 28% of all liver cancers can be attributed to aflatoxin exposure. Some fungus that grow on peanuts produce toxins called aflatoxins. And a specific kind, aflatoxin B1, is one of the most potent carcinogens in nature. In fact, it's classified by the International Agency for Research on Cancer, the IARC, as a group one human carcinogen. Meaning, we have sufficient evidence to say it can cause cancer. The risk is especially clear for liver and gallbladder cancer. And people who already have a liver condition, like hepatitis, they are even more prone. Worldwide, between 5 and 28% of all liver cancers can be attributed to aflatoxin exposure. Now, the risk varies enormously depending where you live. In regulated markets, like the United States, the FDA actually tests for aflatoxin in peanuts and peanut butters. So, if you're buying major brands and avoiding peanuts that look off, moldy, discolored, or shriveled, as recommended by the National Cancer Institute, then contamination is very unlikely. Check out the full video, link in the description.