Improper handling and storage of cereal grains and oilseeds result in the production of toxins known as aflatoxins which are not generally destroyed by normal cooking process. Aflatoxins are produced by

• (a) Bacteria: Incorrect. Aflatoxins are not bacterial toxins; they are mycotoxins.
• (b) Protozoa: Incorrect. Protozoa do not produce aflatoxins in stored grains/oilseeds.
• (c) Moulds: Correct. Aflatoxins are produced by fungi/moulds, especially Aspergillus flavus and Aspergillus parasiticus, during improper storage.
• (d) Viruses: Incorrect. Viruses do not produce toxins like aflatoxins.

Answer: (c) moulds