Khaberni - Some almond drinks, which are often consumed as an alternative to cow's milk, may pose a health risk to young children, according to the German Institute for Risk Assessment.
The institute examined 162 commercial drinks from oats, almonds, and soy in the laboratory to detect mycotoxins and phytotoxins, and to assess their health impacts on children aged between six months and under six years.
The institute found the fungal toxin "aflatoxin B1" in 31 out of 39 almond drinks, and since it can cause cancer through changes in DNA, it is not possible to determine a safe minimum level of impact. Consuming these almond drinks may pose a health risk to children. The institute classified the likelihood of health damage as "moderate."
For other fungal toxins, the assessments were less severe; "ochratoxin A" was found in 33 out of 39 almond drinks and 23 out of 29 soy drinks in very small quantities. However, the institute views the consumption by children of these drinks as "low risk."
The institute noted that "deoxynivalenol" was detected in 67 out of 86 oat drinks. However, the occurrence of health damage after consumption is considered "unlikely". The toxins "T-2" and "HT-2" were also found in all 86 oat drinks tested. The institute classified the likelihood of harm after consumption as "low probability", but the total quantity consumed could increase if other products containing oats such as oat flakes are consumed.
In addition to mycotoxins, the institute also identified plant toxins. According to experts, there were generally no indications of risks associated with tropane alkaloids, except for one soy drink product where "atropine" and "scopolamine" were measured repeatedly in high amounts, warranting consideration of potential health damage.
Due to the lack of sufficient information so far about the quantities of plant-based drinks consumed by children, assessments were based on data on cow's milk consumption. It also assumed that only one type of plant drink replaces cow's milk. The institute pointed out that mycotoxins can also be found in other foods such as cereals, fruits, vegetables, nuts, or cocoa. Generally, a varied and balanced diet helps keep the intake of undesirable substances at the lowest possible level.
