Aflatoxins are produced by moulds that contaminate a wide range of foods and feeds. Aflatoxin B1 is commonly found in maize and groundnuts, which are staples in Africa, and is a known carcinogen. Aflatoxin M1 is found in the milk of women and lactating animals if their diet is contaminated with aflatoxin B1; it is considered a particular risk to infants and young children as milk is often part of their diet. This is additional to the risk of aflatoxin B1 which has been reported from a variety of complementary and weaning foods in Africa. Although aflatoxins are mainly found in tropical and sub-tropical countries where climatic conditions are conducive to fungal growth, risk of contamination by these toxins may also be increasing in Europe and in other temperate regions as the result of climate change. This special issue of AJFAND is a contribution to better understanding several aspects of the multi-faceted problem of aflatoxins, focused on East Africa.