UPSC Prelims 1998·GS1·science-and-technology·science and technology

Ergotism is due to consumption of

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Last updated 23 May 2026, 3:31 pm IST
  1. Acontaminated grainsCorrect
  2. Brotting vegetables
  3. Ccontaminated water
  4. Dstale cooked food

Explanation

Ergotism is a form of poisoning caused by the ingestion of grains, particularly rye, wheat, and barley, that have been contaminated by the fungus Claviceps purpurea. This fungus replaces the healthy grain kernels with dark, toxic masses called sclerotia. These sclerotia contain potent alkaloids that, when consumed through flour or cereal products, can lead to serious health issues including gangrene and neurological symptoms. Therefore, the consumption of contaminated grains is the direct cause of this condition.
science-and-technology: Ergotism is due to consumption of
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