Sex- and Gender-Specific Considerations in Mycotoxin Screening: Assessing Differential Exposure, Health Impacts, and Mitigation Strategies

Mycotoxins, toxic secondary metabolites produced by fungi, present significant health risks through contaminated food and feed. Despite broad documentation of their general impacts, emerging research highlights the requirement of addressing both sex- and gender-specific differences in the risk of exposure, susceptibility, and health outcomes in mycotoxin screening and mitigation strategies. Distinct biological (sex-based) and sociocultural (gender-based) factors can influence the risk of mycotoxin exposure and subsequent health impacts; women may for example exhibit specific exposures to certain mycotoxins due to physiological and hormonal differences, with increased risks during critical life stages such as pregnancy and lactation. Conversely, men may demonstrate distinct metabolic and immune responses to these toxins. Socioeconomic and cultural factors also contribute to gender-specific exposure risks, including occupational exposures, dietary habits, and healthcare access. Current mycotoxin screening methodologies and regulatory frameworks often disregard these sex and gender disparities, resulting in incomplete risk assessments and suboptimal public health interventions. This review addresses the incorporation of sex- and gender-specific data into mycotoxin research, the development of advanced screening techniques, and the implementation of targeted mitigation strategies. Addressing these sex and gender differences is crucial for enhancing the efficacy of mycotoxin management policies and safeguarding public health. Future research directions and policy recommendations are discussed to promote a more comprehensive and practical approach to mycotoxin risk assessment and control.