
Is coffee mold actually making you sick?
From Nutrition Diva by QuickAndDirtyTips.com, Monica Reinagel
March 18, 2026 · 12 min · Episode 856
About this episode
Monica examines the science behind mold toxins in coffee and whether they pose a real health risk.
856. According to the internet, your morning brew might be hiding "mold toxins" that cause brain fog, fatigue, and digestive issues. But is mold-free coffee a bona fide health breakthrough, or just a clever marketing play? This week, Monica takes a closer look at the science of mycotoxins in coffee, specifically Ochratoxin A (OTA). We separate food safety facts from "wellness guru" fiction to find out if standard coffee beans are actually undermining your health. What Mycotoxins Are: Understanding the difference between visible mold and chemical compounds like Aflatoxin and Ochratoxin A. The Roasting Defense: Why the roasting process is your best protection against toxins and why "green coffee" products carry different risks. Hazard vs. Risk: A crucial distinction in food safety—is the presence of a toxin the same thing as a threat to your health? Practical Prevention: 4 simple steps to minimize exposure—from checking "roasted on" dates to proper home storage—without paying a premium for specialty brands. The Big Picture: How coffee compares to tea, herbal infusions, and cocoa when it comes to OTA levels. Related Episodes: Episode # 517 : Aflatoxins in Peanuts Episode # 355 : The…
People in this episode
Host: Monica Reinagel
Topics covered
- mycotoxins
- coffee safety
- health risks
- food safety
- mold toxins
- roasting process
Keywords
- coffee
- mold toxins
- Ochratoxin A
- food safety
- health risks
- roasting process
- mycotoxins
Mentioned in this episode
Organizations: QuickAndDirtyTips.com
Products: coffee, green coffee, tea, herbal infusions, cocoa
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