Abstract
The presence of aflatoxin B1 (AFB1) in pistachio nuts has a serious impact on public health. Kefir grains (KGs) contain several probiotic microorganisms well known for their aflatoxin decontamination effects. In this study, the capacity of KG to remove AFB1 from pistachio nuts was investigated and the detoxification method was optimised using certain statistical approaches. Five variables (toxin concentration, KG level, contact time, incubation temperature and pre-treatment heat level) were considered in the study. Pistachio samples were spiked with 5, 10, 15, 20 and 25 ng/g AFB1 stock solutions and then treated with 5, 10, 15, 20 and 25% (w/w, based on the amount of pistachio paste) KG already heated at 70 and 110 °C. AFB1 concentrations in the samples were determined using high-performance liquid chromatography. Results of the study indicated that: (1) KG caused significant decrease in AFB1; (2) cell viability of KG was not necessary for its decontamination effect; (3) the amount of AFB1 reduction depen...
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