Tag: Ergot poisoning

In 1956, a severe epidemic of food poisoning affected people in Bombay State, India, traced back to contaminated bajra. The disease is related to a fungus called ergot, specifically *Claviceps fusiformis*, which grows on bajra or pearl millet. This article explores ergotism, other potential health issues, and how to safely consume this nutritious grain.

Historically, severe epidemics of a deadly ailment known as 'St. Anthony's Fire' affected thousands of people in Europe during the Middle Ages, with the cause ultimately traced to ergot. This fungal growth, which develops on cereal grains like rye, contains potent toxic alkaloids, confirming unequivocally that ergot is poisonous.