Mold DNA, Spores, or Mycotoxins? Choosing the Right Test | MycoLogic Ep. 4

In Episode 4 of MycoLogic by Respirare Labs, Mark Ritacco and Andi Hembroff break down the different testing methods used within the three environmental domains: dust, surface, and air. Not all mold and mycotoxin tests answer the same question. Some tests are designed to evaluate biological mold indicators, while others are designed to evaluate chemical mycotoxin contamination or potential airborne exposure pathways. In this episode, Mark and Andi discuss dust-based screening tools, surface sampling, spore trap air sampling, particle counters, and airborne mycotoxin testing. The key takeaway: the best test depends on the question being asked. Are you looking for mold DNA in dust? Mycotoxins in dust? Localized contamination on a surface? Mold spores in the air? Or mycotoxins in the breathing zone? In this episode: 1:16 Review of previous episodes and The Exposure Framework™ 5:07 Biological mold hazard vs. chemical mycotoxin hazard 6:14 Dust testing: ERMI, HERTSMI-2, and EMMA 8:25 ERMI scores and why context matters 16:14 EMMA and dust-based mold + mycotoxin screening 20:39 Surface testing for mold and mycotoxins 24:25 MESA and mycotoxin surface sampling 28:31 Air testing and why not all air samples are the same 30:18 Spore trap air sampling and particle counters 34:45 AMEA and airborne mycotoxin testing 42:03 Final takeaways: choose the test that matches the question This episode is part of our ongoing series on The Exposure Framework™, helping homeowners, clinicians, indoor environmental professionals, and remediation professionals better understand how different environmental findings fit together. Learn more about Respirare Labs: https://respirarelabs.com/ Learn more about Mark Ritacco’s book, Are You Breathing It? A Homeowner’s Guide to Mold, Mycotoxins, and Exposure in Your Home: https://a.co/d/0fY7i21D Disclaimer: The information shared in this episode is for educational purposes only and is not medical, legal, remediation, or professional advice. Individual situations vary, and listeners should consult qualified professionals for guidance specific to their circumstances. #MoldTesting #Mycotoxins #IndoorAirQuality #MoldExposure #ERMI #HERTSMI #EMMA #MycoLogic #RespirareLabs