[Sca-cooks] Rye mold ?

[Decker, Terry D.]

Ergot.  It is caused by Caviceps purpurea.  The term is used for the fungus,
the structures formed on the rye by the fungus, and the alkaloid toxins
produced by the fungus.  The primary toxin, ergotamine, is transformed into
a hallucinogen by baking.  Ergot is a primary source of lysergic acid, from
which LSD (lysergic acid diethylamide) is synthesized.

Ergot normally attacks rye in the field and is retained in the flour when
milled.

Bear



> I seem to remember being told that rye can get a little
> moldy, and if then used to make bread it can be toxic.
>
> I can't remember the name of the toxin though ....anybody know?
>
> Someone on another list is wondering.
>
> Ilia