**4. Fungal Pigments and Toxicity Evaluation**

Most fungi produce pigments along with mycotoxins. The presence of mycotoxins in pigments restricts the application of pigments as an additive in the food industry [16,34]. The European Union and the United States prohibit the consumption of *Monascus* pigments that are produced along with citrinin toxin, which poses a challenge over its safe use [35]. In short, natural pigments are a potential source of colorants that are eco-friendly, biodegradable, antimicrobial and have antioxidant properties. Apart from food additives, they are also used in cosmetics, pharmaceuticals and drug applications [36] (Table 1).



**1.**Importantfungalpigmentsandtheirsafety

*J. Fungi* **2021**, *7*, 692

