When Peanuts Become a Problem
Although peanuts are commonly grouped with nuts, they are technically legumes. Still, they appear in many conversations about brain nutrition because they are rich in protein and relatively inexpensive.
The issue is not the peanut itself — it is the risk of contamination during growing and storage conditions.
Food safety experts warn that “peanuts are highly susceptible to aflatoxin contamination and consumption of contaminated peanuts poses serious threats to the health of humans and domestic animals.” Aflatoxins are toxic substances produced by moulds such as Aspergillus flavus, which can grow on peanuts and grains when exposed to heat and moisture.
According to the World Health Organization, “aflatoxins can cause liver cancer” after long-term exposure. Another cancer research organisation explains the danger more directly: “Aflatoxin is a toxin produced by mould that can damage the liver and may lead to liver cancer (hepatocellular carcinoma) as well as other health-related problems.”
