In a striking episode of her podcast, Heal Squad, host Maria Menounos engaged in a riveting dialogue with none other than Dave Asprey, the mastermind behind the Bulletproof Diet and the self-proclaimed “father of biohacking.” As Asprey delved into the unsettling topic of mycotoxins lurking in coffee, Menounos’s reaction was palpable: “Oh my God, I have chills all the way down my body.” Their conversation sheds light on a narrative Asprey has championed for almost a decade, gaining traction through his appearances on platforms like Armchair Expert and On Purpose With Jay Shetty.
Asprey’s claims aren’t without a grain of truth; mold-infused coffee can harbor mycotoxins that might affect health. However, experts urge caution — the extent of the risk remains ambiguous. Here’s a deeper dive into this controversial topic.
Unraveling the Mystery: What Are Mycotoxins?
Mycotoxins, those nefarious toxic compounds birthed by mold, can indeed infiltrate our beloved coffee, among other crops like corn, grains, nuts, and spices, especially when they are not harvested or stored properly. The World Health Organization has cataloged several hundred mycotoxins, with infamous ones such as aflatoxins and ochratoxin A notorious for wreaking havoc on both animal and human health.
Consumption of mycotoxins — whether through contaminated foods or by way of animals that have ingested tainted feed — can indeed lead to ailments like nausea, vomiting, and diarrhea. Yet, the WHO maintains that the association in humans isn’t conclusive. Both the FDA and USDA have set limits for mycotoxins in certain food categories and keep a vigilant eye on related illness outbreaks.
Assessing the Situation: How Concerning Are Mold and Mycotoxins in Coffee?
Coffee evidently remains vulnerable to contamination from mycotoxins like ochratoxin A and aflatoxin B1. Animal research has shown potential threats from ochratoxin A, tying it to immune dysfunction and other severe health outcomes. However, concrete implications for human health remain shrouded in uncertainty. The International Agency for Research on Cancer has even labeled ochratoxin A a group 2B possible human carcinogen.
Research has documented the presence of ochratoxin A in various coffee samples, yet these quantities are generally minuscule and fall below legally established limits in the U.S. and Europe. Notably, roasting might effectively mitigate ochratoxin A levels by up to 100%. In a comprehensive study from 2021, researchers concluded that no evidence definitively links coffee consumption with ochratoxin A toxicity.
On the other hand, data on aflatoxin B1 in coffee is scant, and no established limits exist for it in the U.S. or Europe. Similar to ochratoxin A, the roasting process substantially diminishes aflatoxin B1 levels. While aflatoxin poses a significant carcinogenic threat, the current consensus suggests that drinking coffee doesn’t pose a toxicity risk associated with aflatoxin exposure.
“Mycotoxins are pervasive, yet our bodies are quite resilient,” explains Dr. Jamie Alan, an associate professor of pharmacology and toxicology at Michigan State University. “Most foods contain some trace of mycotoxins. If your intake sits comfortably within safe levels, health risks are minimal.”
In summary, the likelihood of your cherished cup of joe being a looming threat of mycotoxin exposure is exceedingly low. The coffee industry is diligently seeking innovative strategies to curb mold and mycotoxin growth within beans, but there are proactive steps you can take to guard against potential risks.
Taking Precautions: How to Minimize the Risk
“Our bodies are generally well-equipped to deal with small amounts of mycotoxins,” Alan advises. “To minimize your risk, invest in high-quality coffee and ensure it is stored in optimal conditions.”
Here are some practical measures to help reduce any lurking mycotoxins or mold in your coffee:
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Store your coffee beans in a vacuum-sealed canister in a cool, dry place to keep moisture at bay and stave off mold.
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Opt for whole coffee beans instead of pre-ground coffee; grounds, with their expansive surface area, are more prone to contamination.
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Maintain a cleanliness regime for your grinder and coffee machine.
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Steer clear of green (unroasted) coffee bean products, as roasting effectively diminishes toxic mycotoxin levels.
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Check the roast date on your coffee package; the longer it sits, the higher the odds of harboring mold and mycotoxins.
Sensitive to Coffee? Here’s How to Alleviate the Effects.
For some, coffee’s allure turns into a source of discomfort — but rest assured that mycotoxins and mold are unlikely culprits. The beverage comprises numerous compounds, including caffeine and salicylates, which can elicit adverse reactions in particular individuals. While caffeine can enhance alertness — and bring about health benefits — it can also lead to jitters, increased heart rate, and sleeplessness. Similarly, salicylates possess health-boosting properties but can trigger allergic responses in some.
If caffeine exacerbates your discomfort, consider pairing your coffee with food to moderate absorption or switch to decaf, which is generally gentler on the system. Foods rich in fats and proteins are especially beneficial in slowing down caffeine absorption.
Wrapping Up: Bottom Line
In closing, coffee is unlikely to be a breeding ground for mold or mycotoxin-related maladies — especially if you put preventative measures into play, such as selecting fresh beans and ensuring proper storage. However, if you still feel discomfort despite adhering to these guidelines, perhaps a shift to decaf is a wise choice.
Edwina Clark is a certified dietitian.
