Microcystin is a type of cyanotoxin and is one of the several toxins produced by the cyanobacteria otherwise known as blue-green algae. The presence of high concentrations of microcystin in potable water recently became a serious health risk in the United States with potential impact on the food industry. Increasing levels of cyanotoxins in water has also been recognized as an emerging global issue with potential implications for irrigation water used in agriculture. The combination of increased surface water temperatures and increased nutrient levels from farm and waste water run-off are expected to be the primary drivers for increased algae blooms. Both the U.S. EPA and the World Health Organization have devised advisory or provisional guidance values for microcystin in potable water supplies to support water monitoring. As algae blooms continue to grow in severity presenting an environmental challenge not just in the United States but globally, there is a need for increased research and awareness on cyanotoxins as well as effective mitigation programs and development of analytical methods to adequately identify each toxin. This information will be beneficial in supporting global public water system managers who are on the front lines of this issue, ensuring that our potable water supply continues to be safe for human consumption and use in food manufacture. In this symposium, we will review cyanotoxins and their effects on human health, potential impacts to the food industry including potable water used in food production and irrigation for agriculture, discuss monitoring activities, occurrence rates, action levels set by global regulatory agencies, and explore applicable mitigation methods.

Presentations