Occurrence of multi-mycotoxins and tropane alkaloids in legume-based foods: a comparative exposure assessment between Italy and Thailand

Abstract

The rapid expansion of legume-based foods as sustainable protein sources raises emerging food safety concerns related to multi-toxin contamination. This study investigated the occurrence and dietary exposure of mycotoxins and tropane alkaloids in 132 legume-based products from Italy and Thailand. Samples, including raw legumes, flours, pasta, and snacks, were analysed using a validated UHPLC–MS/MS multi-analyte method targeting 42 compounds, and dietary exposure was estimated based on national consumption data. Overall, 48.5% of samples were contaminated, with snacks representing the most affected category. Distinct contamination profiles were observed across countries: Italian products showed a higher occurrence of regulated mycotoxins and tropane alkaloids, while Thai products were characterized by a predominance of emerging mycotoxins and occasional high-level contamination events. Co-occurrence of multiple toxins was frequent and contributed to cumulative exposure. These findings identify emerging mycotoxins as major contributors to the contamination profile of legume-based foods and highlight gaps in current regulatory frameworks, supporting the need for integrated, multi-analyte, risk-based monitoring strategies.