Which of the following human organs is affected by the consumption of aflatoxin, a food adulterant?

The human organ that is affected by the consumption of aflatoxin is the Liver. Aflatoxins are mycotoxins. They are highly poisonous secondary metabolites substances synthesized by fungi belonging to the Aspergillus species. Aflatoxin is also acting as carcinogens and mutagens and causes liver cancer in humans.

The mold Aspergillus grows in soil, dead and decaying vegetation. The fungi also grow on various foodstuffs that are consumed by humans and animals such as wheat, rice, millet, sweetcorn, peanut, sesame seed, sorghum, etc. Upon consumption by humans and animals, they enter their bodies. If an animal consumes aflatoxin-contaminated food, there is a possibility that the toxin can pass to eggs, milk products, and meat.

The most toxic toxin is Aflatoxin B₁. It is produced by the fungi Aspergillus parasiticus and A flavus. The other aflatoxins are aflatoxin G1, aflatoxin G2, aflatoxin B1, and aflatoxin B2. They can enter the body through mucous, respiratory, or cutaneous routes. Aflatoxin contains a coumarin ring and a lactone moiety. 

Adult humans show a high tolerance for aflatoxin. However, children are affected most due to the toxin. The higher dose of aflatoxin ingestion can cause acute hepatic necrosis called acute aflatoxicosis. Later the acute aflatoxicosis leads to liver cirrhosis or liver carcinoma.