and other diseases (for example, species of
Aspergillus produce a carcinogen called
aflatoxin, and Fusarium moniliforme produces
another called fumonisin). The presence of
fungal toxins in our foods is generally
invisible to the consumer, and is monitored by
producers and government agencies. They’re
not now considered a major health risk. But
the least sign of mold or other spoilage on
grains and nuts means that the food should be
discarded.
The Composition
and Qualities of Seeds
Parts of the Seed
All of our food seeds consist of three basic
parts: an outer protective coat, a small
embryonic portion capable of growing into the
mature plant, and a large mass of storage
tissue that contains proteins, carbohydrates,