Which statement best describes the properties of fumonisins relative to other mycotoxins?

• A. Lipid-soluble, heat-labile, and alkali-sensitive.
• B. Water-soluble, heat-stable, resistant to alkali treatments.
• C. Volatile and destroyed by cooking.
• D. Non-water-soluble and easily deactivated by acids.

Answer: (B)

Fumonisins are highly polar compounds, so they are readily soluble in water rather than fats. They also endure typical cooking heat without being destroyed, meaning food processing like heating or pasteurization doesn’t reliably eliminate them. In addition, they remain stable in alkaline (basic) conditions, so basic treatments don’t readily break them down. This combination—water solubility, heat stability, and resistance to alkali treatments—fits fumonisins best when compared with other mycotoxins, which may be more fat-soluble, volatile and cook-off, or acid-labile.