Total Aflatoxin Content Research Articles

Aflatoxin in feedstuffs and raw milk in Republic of North Macedonia, occurrence and assessment

The main objective of this research is to estimate the situation of occurance of aflatoxins in feedstuffs and aflatoxin M1 raw cow`s milk in Republic of North Macedonia. Detected average concentrations of total aflatoxins in the examined period 2014-2017 were below legal prescribed level. Within the official monitoring programme in the country, 1718 samples of raw cow's milk have been analyzed during 2017 and 2018. Comparison of the data showed that the number of examined samples with values for aflatoxin M1 above the allowed limits, according to the regulation is in 2018 (10 samples) and 2017 (5 samples). Additionally, the calculation of exposure assessment of the human population in North Macedonia demonstrated that the exposure to AFM1 of the adult population in N. Macedonia for 2017 is 0.0563 ng/kg bw/daily, and for 2018 is 0.0824 ng/kg bw/daily. The calculated hazard index (HI) In both years, was lower than one, which means that there are no significant health risks for the consumers. It is important to have continuously low levels of aflatoxins in animal feed and nutrition, especially that the climate changes create more favorable conditions for the development of moulds of Aspergillus.

Incidence of aflatoxins and fumonisins in grain, masa and corn tortillas in four municipalities in the department of Lempira, Honduras

In Honduras, corn is the most important staple food for the majority of the population. This high-demand crop is susceptible to biological contamination with mycotoxins, which could represent a latent hazard for consumers. To assess the incidence of aflatoxins and fumonisins in grain, masa and tortilla, and the dietary exposure to these substances among consumers, a study was conducted in four municipalities in the department of Lempira. Total aflatoxin and fumonisin content were quantified by fluorometry in 144 samples from 48 farmers. Sixty five percent of the samples were contaminated with aflatoxins with levels of 1.28–32.05, 1.15 to 12.61, and 1.01–5.98 μg/kg in grain, masa and tortilla, respectively. Fumonisins were detected in 100% of the samples at levels between 0.82 and 28.04, 0.66 and 14.36, and 0.63 and 12.04 mg/kg in grain, masa and tortilla, respectively. The reduction in aflatoxin and fumonisin contamination after processing grains into tortillas was of 83% and 52%, respectively. The difference in aflatoxin and fumonisin concentration in the three products was significant (p < 0.05). With a per capita tortilla consumption of 490 g/day, dietary exposure was estimated between 0.003 and 0.073 μg/kg bw/day for aflatoxins and 6.16 and 151.98 μg/kg bw/day for fumonisins. Therefore, the risk of exposure to mycotoxins in the evaluated communities was considered high. Mixed effect models showed that postharvest grain management and the nixtamalization process affect the incidence of mycotoxins in corn-based products.

Prevalence of different mold genera and total aflatoxin content in frozen chicken meat and giblets: a health risk assessment study

This study aimed at investigating the prevalence of different mould genera and total aflatoxins (AFTs) content in the retailed frozen chicken breast, thigh, and giblets, including wings, livers, and gizzards. Furthermore, the estimated daily intakes (EDI) of AFTs were calculated. Aflatoxin-related cancer risks among Egyptian adults and children were further assessed using the margin of exposure (MOE) approach. The obtained results indicated mould contamination of the examined chicken breast, thigh, wings, livers, and gizzards at 40%, 30%, 25%, 70%, and 60%, respectively. Aspergillus spp. and Penicillium spp. were the most predominant mould genera among the examined samples. Further identification of the isolated Aspergilli revealed that Aspergillus niger and Aspergillus flavus were the dominant Aspergillus spp. AFTs were detected only in 40% and 25% of the examined liver and gizzard samples, respectively. Positive correlations between AFTs and total mould counts in both livers and gizzards were observed. Calculation of the EDI and MOE of AFTs via consumption of chicken livers and gizzards revealed that excessive consumption of such products represents a potential risk, particularly among children. Therefore, it is highly recommended to adopt strict hygienic measures during the processing and storage of chicken carcasses and reduce the daily intake of chicken livers and giblets.

Quantification of Aflatoxins in Different Dates (Phoenix Dactylifera L.) Varieties from Humid Subtropical Regions

Food items are prone to fungal attacks due to the warm and humid climatic conditions of Pakistan. The aflatoxins (AFs) are the most common mycotoxins produced by fungal species highly responsible for liver toxicity and hepatocellular carcinoma. The present study was planned to assess the contamination levels of aflatoxins (AFB1, AFB2, AFG1, and AFG2) in local and imported varieties (Irani and Saudi) collected from Pakistan. About 251 dates samples were procured from the markets and analyzed by reverse-phase high performance liquid chromatography coupled with a fluorescence detector (HPLC-FLD) in isocratic mode. The AFs were detected in 89% of date samples ranging from 32.9 to 1465.4 μg kg-1 all of which exceeded the permissible limit of AFs set by FDA (USA) (20 µg kg-1) and EU (4 µg kg-1) for human consumption. The two main local varieties Kupro (801.5 µg kg-1), and Mazafati (1275.8 µg kg-1) had maximum concentrations of total aflatoxins. Out of imported varieties, Mabroom (Saudi) (272.94 µg kg-1) and Rubai (Irani) (1465.42 µg kg-1) have the highest concentrations of total aflatoxins. The maximum levels of AFB1 were seen in Mazafati (Pakistani) (521.5 µg kg-1), Mabroom Saudi (127.6 µg kg-1) and Rubai Irani (662.8 µg kg-1). It could be seen that overall local varieties have higher contamination of AB1 and total AFs with the exception of Rubai (Irani) and Mabroom (Saudi) due to the poor storage conditions, improper pre- and post-harvesting handling, and humid conditions of Pakistan emphasizing the need for proper management and regulation.

Dietary Risk Assessment and Consumer Awareness of Mycotoxins among Household Consumers of Cereals, Nuts and Legumes in North-Central Nigeria.

This study characterized the health risks due to the consumption of mycotoxin-contaminated foods and assessed the consumer awareness level of mycotoxins in households in two north-central Nigerian states during the harvest and storage seasons of 2018. Twenty-six mycotoxins and 121 other microbial and plant metabolites were quantified by LC-MS/MS in 250 samples of cereals, nuts and legumes. Aflatoxins were detected in all food types (cowpea, maize, peanut and sorghum) except in millet. Aflatoxin B1 was the most prevalent mycotoxin in peanut (64%) and rice (57%), while fumonisin B1 occurred most in maize (93%) and beauvericin in sorghum (71%). The total aflatoxin concentration was highest in peanut (max: 8422 µg/kg; mean: 1281 µg/kg) and rice (max: 955 µg/kg; mean: 94 µg/kg), whereas the totals of the B-type fumonisins and citrinin were highest in maize (max: 68,204 µg/kg; mean: 2988 µg/kg) and sorghum (max: 1335 µg/kg; mean: 186 µg/kg), respectively. Citrinin levels also reached 51,195 µg/kg (mean: 2343 µg/kg) in maize. Aflatoxin and citrinin concentrations in maize were significantly (p < 0.05) higher during storage than at harvest. The estimated chronic exposures to aflatoxins, citrinin and fumonisins were high, resulting in as much as 247 new liver cancer cases/year/100,000 population and risks of nephrotoxicity and esophageal cancer, respectively. Children who consumed the foods were the most vulnerable. Mycotoxin co-occurrence was evident, which could increase the health risk of the outcomes. Awareness of mycotoxin issues was generally low among the households.

Determination of Aflatoxin Concentrations in Cereals and Legumes Marketed in Zaria Metropolis, Kaduna State, Nigeria

Aflatoxins are group of secondary fungal metabolites produced by Aspergillus species, such as Aspergillus flavus and Aspergillus parasiticus. The aflatoxin producing moulds can grow on cereals and legumes in the field, poorly dried harvested crops in storage, processed food, and feed products. The study was carried out with the aim to determine the level of aflatoxin contamination of cereals grain and legumes in Zaria metropolis, Kaduna State, Nigeria. Ninety&#x0D; (90) samples were collected, which comprises of 18 samples each of millet, sorghum, maize, beans, and groundnuts respectively. The samples were subjected to proximate analysis. The grains were further subjected to cultural isolation and microscopic identification. The isolates were then screened for aflatoxin production ability with neutral red desiccated coconut agar and viewed under UV light (365nm). The remaining portions of the samples was grounded and extracted with 80% (v/v) methanol. The enzyme-linked Immunosorbent Assay (ELISA) technique was used in quantifying the total aflatoxin content of the samples. The results revealed that all the cereals and legumes analysed contain organic and inorganic nutrients that can support the growth of aflatoxigenic moulds and production of aflatoxins. Some major parameters such as carbohydrate content, crude protein, crude lipid, and ash contents were statistically significant (p &lt; 0.05). Thirty-one (31) isolates from the 90 samples were confirmed to be A. flavus and seventeen (17) were A. Parasiticus, with percentage occurrence of 34.4% and 18.9% respectively. All the isolates were screened and demonstrated ability for aflatoxin production under Ultra- Violent light (390nm). The results also revealed a high concentration of aflatoxin (11.04 µg/kg) in millet and a low concentration in sorghum (1.07 µg/kg). The contamination levels within the grains were found to be statistically significant (p &lt; 0.05). Aflatoxin contaminations also occurred in 48 samples out of the 90 samples analysed. The grains samples analysed were found to be contaminated with varying amounts of aflatoxins, which is harmful to humans and animals. Therefore, steps should be taken to ensure that grains are properly dried prior to storage.

Changes in Aflatoxin Content During the Processing of Vinegar Obtained From Grape

Mycotoxins are known to be one of the most important food contaminants that pose potential health risks to humans. This study aimed to investigate the changes in total aflatoxin (TAF) content during grape vinegar production. Different types of aflatoxins including aflatoxin B1 (AFB1 ), B2 (AFB2 ), G1 (AFG1 ), and G2 (AFG2 ) were spiked into washed grape samples in the level of 5 μg/kg. Then grape samples were converted to vinegar. After different stages of vinegar processing including juicing, alcoholic fermentation, acetic acid fermentation, and pasteurization, sampling was performed and the level of each aflatoxin was measured using high performance liquid chromatography with fluorescence detector (HPLC-FD). Among different processing steps, the pasteurization operation had the least effect on the removal of aflatoxin. After juicing, the amount of AFB1 , AFB2 , AFG1 and AFG2 decreased by 14%, 11.18%, 13.77%, and 18.56%, respectively. Alcoholic fermentation had the greatest effect on the removal of aflatoxin so that it could reduce the levels of AFB1 , AFB2 , AFG1 and AFG2 by 41.87%, 45.34%, 45.37%, and 46.52%, respectively. Overall, during processing and conversion of grapes to vinegar, the values of AFB1 , AFB2 , AFG1 and AFG2 were reduced by 76.20%, 71.06%, 69.26%, and 75.85%, respectively. Processing grapes to vinegar can have a significant effect on the aflatoxin reduction.

Monitoring of aflatoxins in edible vegetable oils consumed in Western Iran in Iran: a risk assessment study

ABSTRACT Edible vegetable oils as an important component of our daily diet are widely consumed around the world. In this research, the concentrations of aflatoxins, including B1 (AFB1), B2 (AFB2), G1 (AFG1) and G2 (AFG2) were measured in 43 edible vegetable oil samples such as peanut oil (n = 18), sesame oil (n = 15), olive oil and (n = 10) using high-Performance liquid chromatography with fluorescence detector (HPLC- FLD). In addition, health risks of aflatoxins in adults and children due to ingestion of edible oils were calculated using the Margin of Exposure Estimation (MOE) by the Monte Carlo simulation (MCS) model. The results indicated that the total aflatoxin (TAF) and AFB1 concentrations in 30 (69.76%) and 29(67.14%) of the samples were in the ranges 0.09–30.95 µg/kg and 0.04–20.56 µg/kg, respectively. Also, the concentrations ofTAF and AFB1 in 18 and 16 samples were higher than the European Union maximum permissible limit, which were 4 and 2 µg/kg, respectively.While according to risk assessment analysis, the consumption of edible vegetable oils in children was safe. MOE values of aflatoxin through the consumption of edible vegetable oils in adult were lower than 10,000, showing that the adult are at considerable liver cancer risk. Therefore, it is necessary to strict inspection and monitoring of edible oil products by the regulatory bodies.

AFLATOXIGENIC FUNGI AND AFLATOXINS IN LOCALLY PROCESSED PEANUT BUTTER IN LAGOS, NIGERIA

Aflatoxin and the producing fungi are known contaminants of farm produce at pre-harvest, post-harvest storage and post-processing. This research was carried out to detect aflatoxigenic fungi and quantify aflatoxins in locally processed peanut butter. Forty-seven samples of peanut butter were purchased from vendors in different markets in Lagos, Nigeria. Fungal species were isolated by pour plate method and identified using cultural and microscopic characteristics. Aflatoxigenic fungi (Aspergillus flavus and A. parasiticus) were isolated from 14/47 (29.79%) samples and they were screened for four aflatoxin genes (aflR, nor-1, ver-1, omt-1). Aflatoxin was quantified in samples with aflatoxigenic fungi using High Performance Liquid Chromatography with Ultra violet detection (HPLC-UV). Only seven (five A. flavus and two A. parasiticus) of the fourteen isolates screened had one or more aflatoxin genes with most isolates having nor-1 gene. Aflatoxin B1 was present in all the peanut butter while aflatoxins B2, G2 and G1 were present in 71.43%, 85.71%, and 57.14% of the samples respectively. The peanut butter samples had total aflatoxin content ranging between 373.6µg/kg – 6741.6µg/kg, which is above the 20µg/kg maximum permissible limit recommended by US FDA and ≤ 4µg/kg by EU. Aflatoxin B1 content was 54.3µg/kg – 805.8µg/kg, and also far above the EU limit of 2µg/kg. The high concentration of aflatoxins and occurrence of aflatoxin B1, the most toxic aflatoxin, in all the peanut butter is of great concern to the health of consumers. Adequate sensitization on preventive measures especially avoidance of mouldy peanut kernels by sorting before use in the production of peanut butter should be encouraged.

Prevalence of aflatoxin contamination in red chilli pepper (Capsicum annum L.) from India

SummaryThe aflatoxin contamination of chilli pepper grown and marketed in Tamil Nadu, a southern Indian state, was assessed. Chilli samples were collected at different stages of the value chain and were quantified using the enzyme‐linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA) test. Forty‐two representative samples were collected from four districts identified as the hub for production, distribution, agro‐processing industries and retail stores. In addition, interviews were conducted among the chilli farmers, vendors and agro‐industrialists across the hubs to assess their knowledge on aflatoxin contamination and safe handling practices. The maximum aflatoxin content determined in the chilli pepper was 37.8 µg kg−1. Almost 66.7% of samples collected from the retail outlets had aflatoxin values above 10 µg kg−1. The total aflatoxin content in the samples collected across the value chain was in the range of 3.83 to 37.80 µg kg−1. Statistical analysis on aflatoxin contents showed that there were significant differences (P &lt; 0.05) between the districts representing different operations of value chain. The detected aflatoxin content was highest in samples collected from Dindigul district and least in Erode district. The results of the perception study showed that respondents into farming and trade activities had very little or no knowledge of aflatoxin contamination of chilli. The prevalence of unacceptable levels of aflatoxin in the chilli supply chain in the districts studied is probably due to tropical climatic conditions and poor handling practices of chilli.

The Scourge of Aflatoxins in Kenya: A 60-Year Review (1960 to 2020)

Aflatoxins are endemic in Kenya. The 2004 outbreak of acute aflatoxicosis in the country was one of the unprecedented epidemics of human aflatoxin poisoning recorded in mycotoxin history. In this study, an elaborate review was performed to synthesize Kenya’s major findings in relation to aflatoxins, their prevalence, detection, quantification, exposure assessment, prevention, and management in various matrices. Data retrieved indicate that the toxins are primarily biosynthesized by Aspergillus flavus and A. parasiticus, with the eastern part of the country reportedly more aflatoxin-prone. Aflatoxins have been reported in maize and maize products (Busaa, chan’gaa, githeri, irio, muthokoi, uji, and ugali), peanuts and its products, rice, cassava, sorghum, millet, yams, beers, dried fish, animal feeds, dairy and herbal products, and sometimes in tandem with other mycotoxins. The highest total aflatoxin concentration of 58,000 μg/kg has been reported in maize. At least 500 acute human illnesses and 200 deaths due to aflatoxins have been reported. The causes and prevalence of aflatoxins have been grossly ascribed to poor agronomic practices, low education levels, and inadequate statutory regulation and sensitization. Low diet diversity has aggravated exposure to aflatoxins in Kenya because maize as a dietetic staple is aflatoxin-prone. Detection and surveillance are only barely adequate, though some exposure assessments have been conducted. There is a need to widen diet diversity as a measure of reducing exposure due to consumption of aflatoxin-contaminated foods.

Prevalence of Aflatoxin- and Fumonisin-Producing Fungi Associated with Cereal Crops Grown in Zimbabwe and Their Associated Risks in a Climate Change Scenario.

In most sub-Saharan African countries, staple cereal grains harbor many fungi and some produce mycotoxins that negatively impact health and trade. Maize and three small grain cereals (sorghum, pearl millet, and finger millet) produced by smallholder farmers in Zimbabwe during 2016 and 2017 were examined for fungal community structure, and total aflatoxin (AF) and fumonisin (FM) content. A total of 800 maize and 180 small grain samples were collected at harvest and during storage from four agroecological zones. Fusarium spp. dominated the fungi associated with maize. Across crops, Aspergillus flavus constituted the main Aspergillus spp. Small grain cereals were less susceptible to both AF and FM. AF (52%) and FM (89%) prevalence was higher in maize than in small grains (13–25% for AF and 0–32% for FM). Less than 2% of small grain samples exceeded the EU regulatory limit for AF (4 µg/kg), while <10% exceeded the EU regulatory limit for FM (1000 µg/kg). For maize, 28% and 54% of samples exceeded AF and FM Codex guidance limits, respectively. Higher AF contamination occurred in the drier and hotter areas while more FM occurred in the wetter year. AF exposure risk assessment revealed that small grain consumption posed low health risks (≤0.02 liver cancer cases/100,000 persons/year) while maize consumption potentially caused higher liver cancer rates of up to 9.2 cases/100,000 persons/year depending on the locality. Additionally, FM hazard quotients from maize consumption among children and adults were high in both years, but more so in a wet year than a dry year. Adoption of AF and FM management practices throughout the maize value chain coupled with policies supporting dietary diversification are needed to protect maize consumers in Zimbabwe from AF- and FM-associated health effects. The higher risk of health burden from diseases associated with elevated concentration of mycotoxins in preferred maize during climate change events can be relieved by increased consumption of small grains.

Aflatoxin Contamination of Garri Sold in Some Selected Markets in Benue State, North Central, Nigeria

The presence of aflatoxin-producing fungi in foods consumed by humans and animals has often resulted in the health hazards and even death. Aflatoxin contaminations of garri sold in some markets of Benue State, Nigeria, were studied, to ascertain the health implications on the consumers. Sixty garri samples comprising of 30 white garri and 30 yellow garri respectively were studied. The garri samples were ground to a particle size of 250 μm using a sterile blender. The total aflatoxin was extracted using 70% (v/v) methanol. The total aflatoxin concentration was detected and quantified using the Enzyme-Linked Immunosorbent Assay technique. The results showed that overall, 76.67% of the white garri samples and 80% of the yellow garri samples were aflatoxin positive. The total aflatoxin concentration in white garri ranged from 0.3 μg/kg to 2.4 μg/kg and 0.2 to 2.4 μg/kg in yellow garri respectively. The total mean aflatoxin across the States recorded was 2.96 μg/kg in white garri and 3.07 μg/kg in yellow garri. All the aflatoxin-positive garri samples of both the white and yellow garri were within the NAFDAC permissible aflatoxin level. Even though the aflatoxins are within the approved standard consumable limits, the continuous consumption of these doses over a long period of time could lead to the accumulation of these toxins in the body. These may eventually constitute a toxic health challenge.

Simultaneous Estimation of Aflatoxins (B1, B2, G1 and G2) by Liquid Chromatography Coupled with Mass Spectrometry (LC-MS) in Corn Samples

Aflatoxins produced by Aspergillus flavins and Aspergillus pasasiticus have been investigated in the corn (maize) collected in different locations in Andhra Pradesh state, India. In the present study, 24 corn samples collected from different harvest, storage and dumping areas were analyzed for detection of aflatoxin contamination by liquid chromatography coupled with mass spectrometry (LC-MS). Mixed aflatoxin working standard solutions with a concentration of 10, 20, 30, 40, 50 and 60 ng/mL were prepared and followed by instrumental analysis and the retention times of the sample chromatograms were compared with the standard aflatoxins B1, B2, G1 and G2 retention times in order to determine the contamination. The findings revealed that among 24 collected samples, only 10 samples have been found positive for aflatoxins contamination when subjected to LC-MS analysis. Co-occurrence of aflatoxin was identified in the most of the samples. Even though 10 samples were tested positive total aflatoxin content in the most positive are found within the acceptable limits (30 μg/kg) and samples collected at dumping areas (S4, S8 and S10) show the presence of exceeding quantity than the limits described by FSSAI. Total aflatoxin content in the most positive were found within the acceptable limits (30 μg/kg) and the samples collected at dumping areas S4 (40.9 μg/kg), S8 (53.2 μg/kg) and S10 (71.86 μg/kg) had shown exceeding limits. The sample S7 collected from the storage was also found positive of presence of aflatoxin G2- 13.49 μg/kg and B2-21.14 μg/kg with total aflatoxin of 34.65 μg/kg. High contamination of these dumping areas may lead to contamination of storage points nearer to these areas. Present results showed that the corn samples at dumping areas were found to be contaminated with the Aspergillus flavins and Aspergillus pasasiticus.

Packaging fortified with Natamycin nanoparticles for hindering the growth of toxigenic Aspergillus flavus and aflatoxin production in Romy cheese.

Objective:This study assessed the effect of cellulose sheets fortified with Natamycin-loaded alginate nanoparticles on the growth of toxigenic Aspergillus flavus and aflatoxin production on the superficial layer of Egyptian Romy cheese after 12 weeks of maturation.Materials and Methods:Toxigenic A. flavus (GenBank accession No. MT645073) was inoculated into the outer surface of Egyptian Romy cheese (at 5 log CFU/gm) and wrapped with a cellulose sheet fortified with Natamycin-loaded alginate nanoparticles. Unwrapped control contaminated Romy wheels were made as well as non-contaminated wrapped cheese wheels for sensory evaluation. Romy cheese wheels were stored at a temperature similar to commercial methods for 12 weeks. Fungal counts were enumerated during this time, and enzyme-linked immune sorbent assay detected aflatoxin after the 4th week of maturation storage.Results:In cheese samples covered with cellulose sheets containing Natamycin-loaded alginate nanoparticles, the fungal count was reduced by 2 log approximately in contrast to control samples after the 2nd week of storage. However, within the 8th week of storage, the greatest significant reduction (p < 0.05) was seen where fungal growth was hindered entirely to the end of the ripening period. The mean values for taste, color, flavor, and overall acceptability were 4, 4.7, 4.09, and 4.3, respectively. Furthermore, in the treated samples, the total aflatoxin concentration was decreased by 78.6% relative to the untreated control one.Conclusion:Using cellulose sheets fortified with Natamycin-loaded alginate nanoparticles in Egyptian Romy cheese wrapping could be an effective way of controlling A. flavus and subsequent aflatoxin production without influencing the typical taste, color, flavor, and overall appearance of traditional Romy cheese.

Incidence of Aflatoxins in Local and Imported Canned Beef Consumed in Sohag City, Upper Egypt

This study was designed to evaluate the existence of total aflatoxins in local and imported beef canned meat consumed in Sohag city markets. Fifty canned beef meat samples (25 local and 25 imported) were collected from different trade market locality in Sohag city, upper Egypt. The competitive enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay ELISA was applied for the determination of total aflatoxins (TAFs). All the tested samples were positive for TAFs with variable types and concentrations. The average concentration of TAF in local beef canned samples showed 60% were above the permitted limit, whereas the imported beef canned foods revealed 70% of samples exceeded the tolerance limit, according to EFSA CONTAM Panel 2018 was published on the ‘Effect on public health of a possible increase of the maximum level for ‘aflatoxin total’ from 4 to 10 µg/kg in processed products which intended for direct human consumption or use as an ingredient in foodstuffs’. These results raise concerns about the canned meat consumed in Egypt and the necessary for regular monitoring for TAFs contamination.

The Occurrence of Aflatoxins in Nuts and Dry Nuts Packed in Four Different Plastic Packaging from the Romanian Market.

Mycotoxins are secondary metabolites produced by various fungi. A very important category of mycotoxins are aflatoxins, considered to be the most dangerous in humans. Aflatoxin B1, well known as a favorable factor in the occurrence of hepatocellular carcinoma in humans, is the most controversial of all mycotoxins. Aflatoxins, found in naturally contaminated food, are resistant to degradation by heat. Current food processing practices and conventional storage conditions do not completely eliminate aflatoxin contamination from the food supply chain. Long storage food products—such as peanuts, pistachio, nuts in general, and dried fruits—are susceptible to aflatoxins contamination. The type of plastic material can influence the concentration of aflatoxins during storage due to the permeability to gas and moisture exchange with the external milieu. Nuts in general and dried fruits are consumed in large quantities worldwide. Therefore, herein we investigated the effect of plastic material on the total aflatoxins and aflatoxin B1 content in 64 samples of nuts and dried fruits packed and stored in low-density polyethylene (LDPE), polypropylene (PP), polyethylene (PE), and polyethylene terephthalate (PET). The method consisted in a cleanup procedure using immunoaffinity columns coupled with RIDASCREEN FAST immunoenzymatic competitive assays based on the ELISA technique. Collected data were subjected to statistical analysis and multiple comparisons tests were applied. From the total analyzed samples, 14.06% exceeded the maximum admitted European levels for total aflatoxins. The highest concentrations of total aflatoxins were obtained from samples packed in LDPE, followed by PP, PE, and PET. Aflatoxin B1 was detected in all samples packed in LDPE, PP, and PE. Most of the samples packed in PET had concentrations <1 µg/kg. These results indicate that nuts in general packed and stored in LDPE are more prone to contamination with aflatoxins, while PET is more suitable for maintaining the quality and safety of these products.

Mycological and chemical screening of maize at open Nigeria

The aim of the present study was to screen maize at the open markets in Osun state, Nigeria to determine species of fungi total aflatoxin content and changes inproximate, energy and some vitamins content of maize grains. A total of forty five mouldy maize samples were collected from the six different open markets within the region which were later bulked into six representative samples (20-50Kg) for each market while Aflasafe maize, obtained from the Internationa lInstitute of Tropical Agriculture (IITA) was used as a control.There presentative samples from the bulk were taken for proximate,selected vitamins and total aflatoxin contents determination.The quantitative enumeration of fungias colony forming units per gram of the grains (CFU/g) was performed using the surface spread method in different culture media. The results of fungi profile were further expressed as fungal isolation frequency (IF) and relative density (RD). Twelve (12) species and seven fungi genera were isolated in this study. The total fungi count ranged from 1.50x10 to 2.1X10 CFU/g in the six different locations. Aspergillus flavus, Rhyzopus stolonifer and Aspergillus glaucus were the most prevalent species Aspergillus and Rhizopus species occurred at 100% and 87% (IF) respectively. The toxigenic species of Aspergillus, Fusarium and Penicellium had 85.7%,14.3% and 14.3% RD respectively. The proximate contents of the mouldy maize reduced by 11.54% for crude protein, 12.72% for ether extract and 1.12% for ash while about 5% caloric loss was observed. Total Aflatoxin in mouldy maize rose from near zero in aflasafe maize to 267.41µg/Kg with an average value of 142.0µg/Kg in mouldy maize while retinol and tocopherol contents were depleted by 48.7% and 37.6% respectively. This study indicated substantial loss of nutrients and reduced feed value in maize due to mould contamination and the need for continuous assessment offered ingredients particularly maize for mycological and nutritive status in order to feed animals for optimal performance

Application of the Biolog® Identification System for Aflatoxin-Producing Fungi Associated with Maize (Zea mays L.) Contamination in Romania

Cereals are very susceptible to fungal attacks. Fungi have a unique biochemical pathway to assimilate a vast array of available substrates and produce toxic secondary metabolites, such as mycotoxins, which represent a clear public health concern. In this context, a maize survey was conducted in order to assess the diversity of mycotoxin-producing fungi. Low levels of total aflatoxins, acceptable by the European Union, were detected in maize samples. A semi-automated Biolog® Microbial Identification System was used for the identification of the fungal strains. Enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA) was used for the quantification of total aflatoxins. The results indicated that Fusarium udum and Rhizopus oryzae were the prevalent fungi for the assessed maize samples, while both control and treated samples showed low levels of total aflatoxins, which did not exceed 1.5 μg kg-1. The registered total aflatoxin concentrations were consistent with the European regulations.

Hydrogen cyanide and mycotoxins: Their incidence and dietary exposure from cassava products in Anyigba, Nigeria

While cassava products are important in addressing food security crises in Africa, they are not exempted from recurring food safety concerns. This research determined consumption, incidence, and concentrations of hydrogen cyanide (HCN), total aflatoxins (AFs), ochratoxin A (OTA) and fumonisins (FBs) in cassava product (casava flour, fufu and gari) among residents of Anyigba, Nigeria, and also estimated dietary exposure to the toxins from the foods. Consumption data from 82 households showed that 89%, 68% and 94% of the residents consume cassava flour, fufu, and gari, respectively. Average daily intake for individuals was 0.751, 0.111, and 0.120 kg of cassava flour, fufu, and gari respectively. The highest incidence and concentration of HCN were found in cassava flour, with %TDI (EDI) of 33.3% (0.03 mg/kg.bw/day). Weekly, residents are exposed to 0.0371, 0.0077 and 0.0224 μg/kg.bw of OTA, and daily to 0.0315, 0.0043, 0.0060 μg/kg.bw of AFs and 0.0000, 0.0025, 0.0004 μg/kg.bw of FBs from consumption of cassava flour, fufu, and gari, respectively. The mycotoxins also co-occurred in the food products.