Clay-based interventions for aflatoxins

Research has focused on the development of innovative sorption strategies for the detoxification of aflatoxins. NovaSil clay (NS) has been shown to prevent the adverse effects of aflatoxins in a variety of animals when included in the diet. Moreover, NS does not interfere with the utilization of vitamins and micronutrients in the diet. Results have shown that NS clay binds aflatoxins with high affinity and high capacity in the gastrointestinal tract, resulting in a notable reduction in exposure from these poisons. This technology may also be applicable and sustainable for use in human foods. A recent clinical trial has confirmed the relative safety of NS for further study in humans. The safety and efficacy of NS will be determined from dietary intervention studies in humans who are at high risk for aflatoxicosis. In summary, enterosorption strategies based on NS clay hold great promise for the management of aflatoxins. The NS clay remedy is novel, inexpensive and easily disseminated. Based on our research, all aflatoxin sequestering clays should be rigorously evaluated in vitro and in vivo, and should meet the following criteria: 1) favorable thermodynamic characteristics of ligand sorption, 2) tolerable levels of priority metals and dioxins/furans based on JECFA/WHO recommendations, 3) efficacy in multiple animal species, 4) safety in long-term studies, and 5) negligible interactions with vitamins, micronutrients and other mycotoxins.