Is aflatoxin B1 carcinogenic?

Generally speaking, aflatoxin B1 (AFB1) is the most common mycotoxin contaminating food and can induce hepatocellular carcinoma in humans, livestock, poultry, fish, and other animals. AFB1 is primarily an indirect carcinogen; its carcinogenic activity manifests only after metabolic activation within the body. The carcinogenic mechanisms of AFB1 in vivo are broadly categorized into two pathways: direct carcinogenesis and indirect (metabolically mediated) carcinogenesis. In direct carcinogenesis, upon accidental ingestion of AFB1-contaminated food, AFB1 is absorbed directly through the gastrointestinal tract—predominantly in the duodenum—while unabsorbed portions are excreted via the elimination system. Therefore, patients are advised to seek timely medical evaluation and treatment to prevent adverse effects on health.