Inhibition of Aspergillus flavus and Aflatoxin in Maize by Acorus calamus (Bojo)

Abstract

This study was carried out to reveal the effect of Bojo powder on Aflatoxin production and growth of Aspergillus flavus 'ITCC 5192' in maize grain stored at four different moisture levels of 13, 17, 21 and 24%. For the inhibition study, Bojo powder was used in the concentration of 0.0, 0.5, 0.75, 1.0, 1.25 and 1.5% (w/w) in maize samples. After inoculation of Aspergillus flavus .ITCC 5192. and incubation for 15 days, Aflatoxins were extracted and quantified by using Thin Layer Chromatography (TLC). Maize sample with moisture content 17% and Bojo powder concentration at 1.0% prevented the growth of Aspergillus flavus and production of Aflatoxin. Aflatoxins as high as 1416ppb were detected in control sample (i.e. no Bojo added) and stored at 17 and 21% respectively. Formation of Aflatoxins and growth of Aspergillus flavus 'ITCC 5192' was not completely inhibited in maize grains at high moisture levels (i.e. 21 and 24%). J. Food Sci. Technol. Nepal, Vol. 6 (59-64), 2010 DOI: http://dx.doi.org/10.3126/jfstn.v6i0.8261