Emerging Research

Are Airborne Aflatoxins More Dangerous Than We Thought? Emerging Research Reveals the Unknowns

Introduction

Mould is not just a cosmetic nuisance. It’s a living organism that, when left unchecked, releases toxic by-products into your environment. One of the most concerning of these by-products is aflatoxin—a dangerous type of airborne mycotoxin.

While we know that ingesting aflatoxins through contaminated food is harmful, emerging research is beginning to uncover just how serious inhalation of airborne aflatoxins might be. The truth is, we still don’t know everything about these toxins. And what we don’t know could be putting people, pets, and properties at risk.

That’s why The Mould Group is at the forefront of monitoring, testing, and remediating airborne aflatoxins across Australia. Their work helps protect families, renovators, business owners, and cool room operators from hidden hazards.

What Are Airborne Aflatoxins and Why Are They Dangerous?

Aflatoxins are toxic compounds produced by certain moulds, especially Aspergillus flavus and Aspergillus parasiticus. These moulds are common in warm, humid environments—and when disturbed, they can release spores containing these toxins into the air.

While much research has focused on the ingestion of aflatoxins in contaminated food, recent studies suggest inhalation exposure may be equally dangerous. These toxins can enter the lungs, affect internal organs, and weaken the immune system over time.

How Can Airborne Aflatoxins Affect Your Health?

Researchers are still learning about the long-term health effects of inhaling aflatoxins, but early evidence points to some serious risks:

• Chronic respiratory irritation

• Allergic reactions and persistent coughing

• Fatigue and immune suppression

• Liver inflammation and toxicity

• Increased cancer risk (especially liver cancer)

People living or working in mould-prone spaces—like poorly ventilated homes or cool rooms—may be breathing in these toxins daily without realising.

What Triggers the Release of Aflatoxins Into the Air?

Environmental factors play a big role in how mould grows and when it releases toxins. The key causes include:

• High humidity and damp conditions

• Poor ventilation in enclosed spaces

• Disturbance during renovations or cleaning

• Storage of spoiled grain or organic materials indoors

• Unmaintained cool rooms or sheds

When spores are disrupted, aflatoxins can become airborne and spread rapidly—especially in older buildings or hidden cavities.

How Can You Test for Airborne Aflatoxins in Your Home?

Because aflatoxins are invisible and odourless, testing is essential. Common testing methods include:

• Air sampling to collect particles over time

• Surface swabbing of suspected mould sites

• Dust testing to check for long-term exposure

• Moisture mapping and thermal imaging to locate hidden mould

• Professional lab analysis of biological samples

The Mould Group uses a combination of these methods to detect airborne aflatoxins before they become a health crisis.

What Are the Best Ways to Remove Airborne Aflatoxins?

Once aflatoxins are present, standard cleaning products aren’t enough. Safe remediation requires:

• HEPA-filtered air scrubbers to remove particles

• Industrial vacuums to clean affected areas

• Safe removal of contaminated drywall, insulation, or carpet

• Application of non-toxic anti-mould treatments

• Sealing and ventilating previously affected spaces

Attempting DIY removal can worsen contamination. For lasting safety, always hire licensed remediation professionals.

How Can You Prevent Mycotoxin Contamination at Home or Work?

Prevention is the best strategy. These habits can protect your property from airborne aflatoxins:

• Fix leaks and roof issues promptly

• Use dehumidifiers in wet or enclosed rooms

• Ventilate kitchens, bathrooms, and cool rooms

• Store food and grain in sealed, dry containers

• Schedule regular mould inspections—especially in older or water-damaged properties

Keeping your environment dry, clean, and well-ventilated is your first line of defence.

Who Is Most at Risk from Airborne Aflatoxins?

Certain people and groups are more vulnerable to aflatoxin exposure:

• Children and infants with developing lungs

• Elderly individuals with weaker immune systems

• Renovators and builders disturbing old structures

• Pet owners with indoor animals near mould

• People working in food storage or cool rooms

• Tenants in older buildings or flood-prone regions

Even a small exposure, over time, can lead to serious health issues—especially when it goes undetected.

Why a Full Mould Inspection Is Essential in 2025

As we explored in Mould Testing vs Full Inspection: What’s the Cost Difference in Brisbane?, DIY kits often give a false sense of security. They don’t test for airborne aflatoxins—and usually miss what’s happening behind walls or ceilings.

The Mould Group provides full inspections that include:

• Airborne aflatoxin testing

• Surface and dust sampling

• Thermal imaging to spot hidden mould

• Custom reports and remediation plans

This level of detail is what keeps homes and businesses truly safe.

What’s Next? Planning for a Safer, Healthier Environment

Looking to learn more about pricing, safety, and testing options?
The next blog in this series—How Much Does a Mould Inspection Cost in Brisbane? A Complete Breakdown—goes into detail on what to expect when you book a professional mould assessment.

Whether you’re a homeowner, renovator, or property manager, it’s a must-read before you take your next step.

If you suspect airborne mycotoxins in your home, don’t wait.

Contact The Mould Group today for expert testing and remediation.

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