How do grain mites harm humans? - briefly
Grain mites introduce allergenic proteins and irritants into stored food, causing skin irritation, asthma attacks, and other respiratory problems upon contact or inhalation. Ingesting contaminated products can provoke gastrointestinal discomfort and nausea.
How do grain mites harm humans? - in detail
Grain mites infest stored cereals, legumes, and dried products, creating direct and indirect health hazards for people who handle or consume contaminated food.
Contact with mite bodies, feces, or shed exoskeleton fragments can trigger skin irritation. Symptoms include itching, redness, and rash that develop within hours of exposure. Repeated contact may lead to chronic dermatitis, especially in individuals with sensitive skin.
Inhalation of airborne mite particles produces respiratory effects. Allergic sensitisation manifests as sneezing, nasal congestion, wheezing, and asthma‑like attacks. Laboratory studies show that mite allergens contain proteases that disrupt airway epithelium, enhancing inflammatory responses.
Ingested mites introduce allergenic proteins and bacterial endotoxins into the gastrointestinal tract. Acute reactions may involve nausea, vomiting, and abdominal cramping. Long‑term consumption of heavily infested grain can contribute to malabsorption and nutrient loss due to enzymatic degradation of starches and proteins.
Mite activity also compromises food safety. Their feeding creates micro‑holes that allow mold colonisation, increasing exposure to mycotoxins such as aflatoxin and ochratoxin. These secondary toxins are carcinogenic and nephrotoxic, adding a serious toxicological dimension to mite infestation.
Diagnosis relies on clinical observation of symptoms and identification of mites in food samples or environmental dust. Skin prick tests and specific IgE assays confirm allergic sensitisation. Pulmonary function tests assess respiratory impact.
Control measures focus on prevention and eradication. Key practices include:
- Maintaining storage humidity below 60 % and temperature under 20 °C.
- Using airtight containers and regularly inspecting bulk goods.
- Applying approved acaricides or controlled‑temperature fumigation when infestations are detected.
- Rotating stock to avoid prolonged storage periods.
- Implementing thorough cleaning of processing equipment to remove residual debris.
By limiting mite proliferation and monitoring allergic responses, the health risks associated with these tiny pests can be effectively managed.