Ochratoxin A in Wheat Products, Oat Products, Rice Products and Other Grain Products - April 1, 2018 to March 31, 2019

​A targeted survey analyzed 495 samples of wheat products, oat products, rice products, and other grains (e.g. barley, quinoa) for ochratoxin A (naturally occurring toxin released by molds. This mold occurs when grains are improperly stored. OTA was found in 45% of samples tested. Levels in these samples did not pose a health risk to Canadian consumers and there were no product recalls resulting from this survey. Overall, our survey results suggest that grains are safe for consumption.