Fumonisin Levels Research Articles

Occurrence and Levels of Mycotoxins in On-Farm-Stored Sesame in Major Growing Districts of Ethiopia

Mycotoxins in sesame seeds pose a significant risk to both food safety and Ethiopia’s economy. The purpose of this study was to determine the presence and concentrations of mycotoxins in sesame seeds kept on farms in Ethiopia’s key sesame-producing areas. Purposive sampling was used to obtain 470 sesame seed samples from farmers′ storage facilities in five important districts. Total aflatoxin (AFT), ochratoxin A (OTA), total fumonisin (FUM), and deoxynivalenol (DON) were identified using both a lateral flow reader and an enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA). The analysis revealed that all samples contained mycotoxins to varying degrees, with AFT and DON being particularly common. AFT levels varied between 2.5 and 27.8 parts per billion (μg/kg), averaging 13.8 μg/kg, while OTA concentrations were between 5.0 and 9.7 μg/kg, averaging 7.1 μg/kg. Total fumonisin levels spanned from 300 to 1300 μg/kg, averaging 800 μg/kg. DON was found in the range of 560 to 700 μg/kg. Notably, 96.8% of the samples fell within the safe range for AFT, FUM, and DON mean levels as defined by the Federal Drug Administration’s maximum limits. The co-occurrence rates of AFT-OTA, DON-OTA, AFT-FUM, FUM-DON, and FUM-OTA were observed at 44.0%, 38.3%, 33.8%, 30.2%, 29.8%, and 26.0%, respectively. Around 37.2% of the samples showed signs of fungal infection, and seed germination rates varied between 66.8% and 91.1%. The Limmu district exhibited higher total aflatoxin levels, greater kernel infection, and reduced germination rates compared to other districts. The Wollega sesame variety was more susceptible to kernel infection, had higher total aflatoxin levels, and lower germination rates compared to other varieties. Additionally, the age of the grain significantly affected (p < 0.05) both kernel infection and germination. Current storage practices in Ethiopia’s primary sesame-growing districts are conducive to the growth of mycotoxin-producing fungi. Given the public health implications of mycotoxin levels in sesame, it is imperative for stakeholders to collaborate in identifying and implementing secure and effective storage solutions to preserve both the quantity and quality of sesame at the smallholder farmer level. This study underscores the necessity for improved storage technologies to safeguard sesame quality and diminish the risk of mycotoxin contamination.

A Three-Year Study on the Nutritional Composition and Occurrence of Mycotoxins of Corn Varieties with Different Transgenic Events Focusing on Poultry Nutrition.

Corn is one of the most produced cereals in the world and plays a major role in poultry nutrition. As there is limited scientific information regarding the impact of transgenic technology on the quality and nutrient composition of the grains, this study investigated the effect of three major transgenic corn varieties-VT PRO3®, PowerCore® ULTRA, and Agrisure® Viptera 3-on the field traits, nutrient composition, and mycotoxin contamination of corn grains cultivated in southern Brazil during three consecutive harvests. VT PRO3®, while demonstrating superior crop yield, showed susceptibility to mycotoxins, particularly fumonisins. In contrast, PowerCore® ULTRA, with the lowest yield, consistently exhibited lower levels of fumonisins. VT PRO3® had higher AMEn than the other varieties, while PowerCore® ULTRA had the highest total and digestible amino acid contents over the three years. The study's comprehensive analysis reveals the distinct impact of transgenic corn technologies on both productivity and nutritional levels. Balancing the crops yield, mycotoxin resistance, and nutritional content of corn is crucial to meet the demands of the poultry feed industry. Such insights are essential for decision-making, ensuring sustainability and efficiency in agricultural production as well as meeting the demands of the poultry industry.

Dietary, socioeconomic, and maize handling practices associated with aflatoxin and fumonisin exposure among women tortilla makers in 5 departments in Guatemala.

Previous research has demonstrated human exposure to mycotoxins among Guatemalans, with high levels of mycotoxins being found in blood and urine samples as well as in maize for human consumption. Mishandling of crops such as maize during pre- and post-harvest has been associated with mycotoxin contamination. The overarching goal of this study was to identify risk factors for aflatoxin and fumonisin exposure in Guatemala. A cross-sectional survey of 141 women tortilla makers was conducted in the departments of Guatemala, Sololá, Suchitepéquez, Izabal, and Zacapa in February 2022. Maize and tortilla samples were collected and analyzed for aflatoxin B1 (AFB1) and fumonisin B1, B2, and B3 contamination (FB1, FB2, FB3). Urine samples were collected and analyzed for urinary FB1 (uFB1) contamination. A questionnaire was administered to collect data on sociodemographic characteristics, dietary intake of maize-based foods the week prior to the study, and maize handling practices. Descriptive statistics were used to describe common maize handling practices. A univariable analysis was conducted to identify predictors of low/high AFB1, total fumonisins, and uFB1. Multivariable logistic regression was used to calculate adjusted odds ratios (ORs) and 95% confidence intervals (CIs). During tortilla processing, a reduction in the AFB1 and total fumonisin levels was observed. The presence of AFB1 in maize was associated with department and mean total fumonisin level in maize (OR: 1.705, 95% CI: 1.113-2.613). The department where the tortilleria was located was significantly associated with the presence of fumonisins in tortillas. Increased consumption of Tortrix was significantly associated with the presence of FB1 in urine (OR: 1.652, 95% CI: 1.072-2.546). Results of this study can be used in the development and implementation of supply chain management practices that mitigate mycotoxin production, reduce food waste and economic loss, and promote food security.

Financial losses due to fumonisin contamination in the Texas High Plains maize

Fumonisins are one of the main problems affecting maize production in the Texas High Plains (THP), where its agroclimatic conditions make it a perennial hotspot for mycotoxin contamination. In 2017, a fumonisin outbreak in the THP maize motivated stakeholders’ request to repeal a subsection of the Texas Administrative Code, §61.61(a)(7) (Fumonisin Rule), and its related Texas Feed Industry Memorandum (Memo 5–20), which previously permitted the blending of maize containing high fumonisin levels with maize containing ≥ 5 mg/kg under state authority, and pivot to FDA fumonisin guidance. Shortly after, the USDA Risk Management Agency (RMA's) reintroduced Discount Factors (DFs) in annual Special Provisions (SP) that outline price reductions related to fumonisin contamination in maize. In this research, we estimate the potential economic burden posed by these changes through a two-part approach. In part one, we construct a decision model that explores the final disposition of fumonisin-contaminated maize based on blending permissions, fumonisin levels, and crop insurance status. In part two, we estimate the economic impact by inserting output values of the decision model into financial equations that consider testing costs, transportation fees, and discounts from crop insurance and grain elevators when applicable. Our economic analysis projects that the financial losses during a THP crop year with high fumonisin levels could range from $15.1 to $135.5 million without the option to blend under conditions of the revised RMA discount schedule. Findings further highlight crop insurance as the most promising risk management strategy for farmers in areas susceptible to fumonisin contamination.

Atoxigenic Aspergillus flavus (Aflasafe KE01) application reduces Fumonisin contamination in maize in lower Eastern Kenya

Management of fumonisin contamination in maize has been a challenge largely because there are no effective management measures for Fusarium ear rots. Maize varieties that are resistant to fumonisin contamination are also lacking. This study was conducted to determine the efficacy of atoxigenic Aspergillus flavus (Aflasafe KE01) on fumonisin contamination of maize. The study was carried out in four sub-counties in lower Eastern Kenya. Twenty-four maize fields were selected in each sub-county; where 12 fields were treated with Aflasafe KE01, while 12 fields comprised the untreated controls. Aflasafe KE01 was applied at a rate of 5 kg/ha and 10kg/ha by hand broadcasting in maize fields two to three weeks before tasselling of maize. Fumonisin level in the maize samples was determined using Accuscan Pro-reader enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA). The results showed that application of Aflasafe KE01 reduced fumonisin in the maize from the Aflasafe KE01 treated fields by up to 68% compared to samples from untreated fields. About 62.5% of the maize fields treated with 5kg/ha of Aflasafe KE01 met the European Commission regulatory threshold of ≤2ppm for total fumonisin as compared to about 45% from the control fields. This indicates that Aflasafe KE01 is a potential biopesticide for the management of fumonisin in maize. Therefore, efficacy of Aflasafe KE01 to reduce fumonisin contamination of other key staples in Kenya should also be evaluated. Key words: Aflasafe KE01, atoxigenic Aspergillus sp., fumonisins, maize.

Comparison Study of Two Fumonisin-Degrading Enzymes for Detoxification in Piglets.

Fumonisins (FBs), particularly fumonisin B1 (FB1) and fumonisin B2 (FB2) produced mainly by Fusarium verticillioide and Fusarium proliferatum, are common contaminants in animal feed and pose a serious threat to both animal and human health. The use of microbial enzymes to efficiently and specifically convert fumonisins into non-toxic or low-toxic metabolites has emerged as the most promising approach. However, most of the available enzymes have only been evaluated in vitro and lack systematic evaluation in vivo. In this study, the detoxification efficacy of two carboxylesterases, FumD (FUMzyme®) and FumDSB, was evaluated comparatively in piglets. The results show that feeding piglets 4.4 mg/kg FBs-contaminated diets for 32 days did not significantly affect the average daily gain, organ indices, and immunoglobulins of the piglets. However, a significant reduction (21.2%) in anti-inflammatory cytokine interleukin-4 was observed in the FBs group, and supplementation with FUMzyme® and FumDSB significantly increased interleukin-4 by 62.1% and 28.0%, respectively. In addition, FBs-contaminated diets resulted in a 3-fold increase in the serum sphinganine/sphingosine (Sa/So) ratio, which is a specific biomarker that has been used to accurately reflect fumonisin levels. The serum Sa/So ratio was significantly reduced by 48.8% after the addition of FUMzyme®, and was insignificantly reduced by 8.2% in the FumDSB group. These results suggested that FUMzyme was more effective than FumDSB in mitigating FBs toxicity in piglets by down-regulating the Sa/So ratio.

Fungal composition, quantification of mycotoxins and enzyme activity in processed Solanum tuberosum Linn (Potato) products stored at different relative humidity.

Postharvest loss of potatoes at the peak of harvest is of global concern. This study aimed to determine the quality of stored processed potato products based on fungal composition, mycotoxin contamination and fungal enzyme activity. Potato products from three cultivars (Caruso, Marabel and Nicola) were grouped as peeled or unpeeled, oven- or sun-dried and all samples were in flour form. Samples were incubated separately for six weeks at 25%, 74% and 87% relative humidities (RH) at 25°C. The pH, moisture content, visible deterioration, mycotoxin, fungal identity by DNA sequencing, and enzyme activity were determined. Results of grouped products (based on variety, drying and peeling method) revealed that moisture content increased in the oven-dried samples and the pH value reduced after incubation. About 26% of the products at 87% RH showed visible deterioration, low amounts of fumonisin were detected in fermented potato product and nine fungal genera were identified across the three RH levels. Enzyme activities by Aspergillus niger, Fusarium circinatum and Rhizopus stolonifer isolates were confirmed. RH influenced deterioration and fungal activities in some stored processed potato products. Low levels of fumonisin were detected.

Roles of Ear Injury, Infestation, and Vector Activity by Ostrinia furnacalis (Asian Corn Borer) and Conogethes punctiferalis (Yellow Peach Moth) in Fusarium verticillioides Infection and Kernel Fumonisin Level.

Field experiments were conducted to evaluate the roles of two corn borers, Asian corn borer (ACB), Ostrinia furnacalis and yellow peach moth (YPM), Conogethes punctiferalis, in Fusarium verticillioides infection using green fluorescent protein (GFP) as a marker. Effects of insect injury, manual injury, and insecticide application on fumonisin production also were assessed. In this study, third instars of ACB and YPM significantly increased GFP-tagged F. verticillioides infection compared with the control, regardless of the fungal inoculation method. Besides acquiring F. verticillioides spores from leaf surfaces and transmitting them to ears, larvae of the ACB and YPM also injure maize ears, which allows F. verticillioides from leaves or silk to infect ears more easily. This suggests that ACB and YPM larvae are vectors of F. verticillioides, which can increase the occurrence of ear rot. Manual injuries significantly increased GFP-tagged F.verticillioides infection of ears, while effective insect control significantly reduced F. verticillioides infection of ears. Insecticide control of borers also significantly reduced fumonisin content in kernels. Larval infestations significantly increased fumonisins in kernels to levels higher than or very close to the European Union threshold (4,000 μg kg-1). Significant and high correlations among corn borer attack, F. verticillioides severity, and kernel fumonisin levels were discovered, confirming the important role of ACB and YPM activity in F. verticillioides infection and kernel fumonisin production.

203 Effects of Feeding Varying Levels of Mycotoxin-Containing Corn Fines on Diet Choice and Growth Performance of Nursery Pigs

Abstract Mycotoxins in feed are known to negatively affect growth and other physiological processes in pigs. Two experiments were conducted to investigate the effects of feeding diets with varying levels of mycotoxins and boron (a nutrient reported to mitigate some aspects of mycotoxicosis). Screenings from the 2020 crop year corn contained mycotoxin levels of 23,038 ppb total fumonisin, 1,446 ppb zearalenone, and 5,032 ppb total deoxynivalenol (DON)l. The corn fines were added into a corn-soybean meal diet formulated to meet or exceed NRC (2012) nutrient requirements as a replacement for corn at 0, 10, and 20% for Diets 1-3. Diets 4-6 were Diets 1-3, respectively, plus 40 ppm boron from sodium tetraborate decahydrate (11.34% B). Diets 3 and 6 were formulated to approximate the cautionary levels of fumonisin and DON stated by the FDA. Exp. 1 used crossbred pigs (n = 144; mean initial BW = 10.20 ± 0.23 kg) blocked by sex and BW and randomly allotted to dietary treatments for a total of 6 replicates (4 pigs/pen) for a 21-day growth performance trial. On day 21, serum was collected from the heaviest and lightest pig in each pen for clinical chemistry assessment. Exp. 2 used crossbred pigs (n = 48; mean initial BW = 9.18 kg ± 0.12 kg) blocked by sex and BW and randomly allotted to 1 of 3 treatment comparisons including: Comparison 1) Diet 1 vs. Diet 2; Comparison 2) Diet 1 vs. Diet 3; and Comparison 3) Diet 2 vs. Diet 3. There were a total of 4 replicates (4 pigs/pen) for a 21-day preference trial. Performance and clinical chemistry data were analyzed by ANOVA using the GLM procedure of SAS with pen as the experimental unit. Preference data were evaluated via t-test. Increasing mycotoxin levels in Exp. 1 had no effect on overall ADG, ADFI, and GF (Table 1; P = 0.16, 0.53, and 0.92, respectively). The increasing mycotoxin levels did effect glucose and cholesterol (P = 0.03, and P < 0.01, respectively). There was no effect of boron on the same performance measures (P = 0.81, 0.59, and 0.76, respectively) although it did decreaser serum glucose (P = 0.02). Exp. 2 demonstrated the barrows ability to discern between diets in Comparisons 2 and 3 (P < 0.01) for each week while gilts only started to exhibit that ability during Week 3 for Comparison 2 (P = 0.06). In conclusion, pigs can differentiate and choose between diets containing these mixed mycotoxins but when not given a choice, the pigs do not have different growth performance using the particular mycotoxins and within the framework of this assessment.

The Role of Mycotoxins in Interactions between Fusarium graminearum and F. verticillioides Growing in Saprophytic Cultures and Co-Infecting Maize Plants.

Fusarium graminearum (FG) and Fusarium verticillioides (FV) co-occur in infected plants and plant residues. In maize ears, the growth of FV is stimulated while FG is suppressed. To elucidate the role of mycotoxins in these effects, we used FG mutants with disrupted synthesis of nivalenol (NIV) and deoxynivalenol (DON) and a FV mutant with disrupted synthesis of fumonisins to monitor fungal growth in mixed cultures in vitro and in co-infected plants by real-time PCR. In autoclaved grains as well as in maize ears, the growth of FV was stimulated by FG regardless of the production of DON or NIV by the latter, whereas the growth of FG was suppressed. In autoclaved grains, fumonisin-producing FV suppressed FG more strongly than a fumonisin-nonproducing strain, indicating that fumonisins act as interference competition agents. In co-infected maize ears, FG suppression was independent of fumonisin production by FV, likely due to heterogeneous infection and a lower level of fumonisins in planta. We conclude that (i) fumonisins are agents of interference competition of FV, and (ii) trichothecenes play no role in the interaction between FG and FV. We hypothesize the following: (i) In vitro, FG stimulates the FV growth by secreting hydrolases that mobilize nutrients. In planta, suppression of plant defense by FG may additionally play a role. (ii) The biological function of fumonisin production in planta is to protect kernels shed on the ground by accumulating protective metabolites before competitors become established. Therefore, to decipher the biological function of mycotoxins, the entire life history of mycotoxin producers must be considered.

Quantitative risk assessment of the presence of fumonisin in corn produced in different regions of Brazil: Influence of climatic conditions

In this study, the probability of occurrence of fumonisins in corn in the states of greatest production in Brazil was determined. The data were analyzed through quantitative risk analysis using the Monte Carlo simulation. The results indicated that there is a strong correlation between fumonisins contamination levels and the geographical region due to the influence of climatic characteristics, with temperature having the main influence. The Southern states presented higher risks of occurrence and concentration levels of fumonisins in corn due to the temperate climate with lower average temperature and higher relative humidity and precipitation indices. Cultivation in the best season indicates a significant reduction in the production of fumonisins when this period was evaluated, with average concentration levels up to 42% lower. The generated data are important for regulatory agencies and the agricultural sector, which needs to be aware that the chance of success in grain production depends on efficient planning of the growing season, mainly concerning the climatic conditions to which it is subject to minimize the risks.

Chronic oral exposure to low-concentration fumonisin B2 significantly exacerbates the inflammatory responses of allergies in mice via inhibition of IL-10 release by regulatory T cells in gut-associated lymphoid tissue.

Contamination with fumonisins produced by Fusarium spp. is rapidly growing in both developing and developed countries. The purpose of this study was to determine whether oral exposure to fumonisin contributed to the development of allergic diseases. We initially examined the immunotoxic potential of short-term, oral administration of fumonisin B1 (FB1, 1mg/kg) and fumonisin B2 (FB2, 1mg/kg), both naturally occurring fumonisins, using a BALB/c mouse model of allergic contact dermatitis and Dermatophagoides farina-induced asthma. Using an NC/nga mouse model of atopic dermatitis (AD), we evaluated the adverse effects of subchronic oral exposure to low concentrations of FB2 (2 or 200μg/kg). Finally, we explored the influence of FB2 on regulatory T cell proliferation and function in mesenteric lymph nodes after 1-week oral exposure to FB2 in BALB/c mice. Oral exposure to FB2 markedly exacerbated the symptoms of allergy, including skin thickness, histological evaluation, immunocyte proliferation, and proinflammatory cytokine production, although no change was observed following exposure to FB1. Furthermore, oral exposure to low concentrations of FB2 considerably exacerbated the AD scores, skin thickness, transepidermal water loss, histological features, and proinflammatory cytokine production. The aggravated allergic symptoms induced by oral exposure to FB2 could be attributed to the direct inhibition of IL-10 production by regulatory T cells in mesenteric lymph nodes. Our findings indicate that the recommended maximum fumonisin level should be reconsidered based on the potential for allergy development.

Determination of fumonisins exposure in children and youth consuming corn-based products in Giresun, Turkey

Presence of Fumonisin B1 (FB1) and fumonisin B2 (FB2) in a total of 54 corn-based products were analyzed by HPLC with fluorescence detector. The presence of fumonisin in corn-based products frequently consumed by children and university students was investigated and the evaluation of the probable daily intakes (PDIs) were estimated. Fumonisins (FB1+FB2) were found in 30 of 54 samples (55.6 %) at concentrations from 18 to 5055 ng/g. FB1 and FB2 ranged from 18 to 4313 ng/g and 20–742 ng/g, respectively. The high levels (95 %) of fumonisins were found in the corn snacks samples (21/22). Fumonisins levels in 9 of 22 the corn snacks samples were above the EU limit of 800 ng/g for fumonisins in corn-based products. However, the fumonisins levels in popcorn and cornflakes samples were lower than 800 ng/g. The PDIs of fumonisins estimated for children and university students were 0.833 and 0.695 μg/kg bw/day, respectively.

Use Microchitosan and Microzeolites as Additives to Treat the Individual and Synergistic Effect of Aflatoxin B1 and Fumonisin B1 Contaminant Broiler Diets

The aim of the study was to investigate and detect the ability of microcomponents of chitosan and zeolite to bind the different compositions of two types of mycotoxins contaminating the diet individually and synergistically. The birds were distributed to the treatments randomly and the first treatment was the control treatment without additions, the second treatment added 2 mg/kg of aflatoxin feed, the third treatment added 300 mg/kg of fumonisin feed, the fourth treatment added 2 mg/kg of feed from Aflatoxin + addition of 300 mg/kg feed of chitosan, the fifth treatment added 2 mg/kg of chitosan to a ration contaminated with aflatoxin 2 mg/kg of feed, the sixth treatment added 2 mg/kg of chitosan to a ration contaminated with 300 m 100 mg/kg of feed, the seventh treatment added 2 mg/kg of zeolite to a ration contaminated with aflatoxin 2 mg/kg of feed, the eighth treatment added 2 mg/kg of zeolite to a diet contaminated with fumonisin 300 mg/kg of feed, the ninth treatment was 2 mg/kg of chitosan + 2 mg/kg of zeolite was added to a diet contaminated with 2 mg/kg of aflatoxin and 300 mg/kg of fumonisin. The results of the statistical analysis indicate, the use of chitosan and zeolite together has shown promising results in reducing the levels of aflatoxin and fumonisin in crops. The combination of these agents could be a useful tool in the control of mycotoxins, with potential benefits for broiler health. Further research is needed to fully understand the mechanisms behind this effect and to optimize the use of these agents.

Assessment of platforms for the reduction of mycotoxin contamination in heaped maize cobs

This study assessed the potential of using platforms to control aflatoxins and fumonisin levels in heaped maize cobs (ears) in the field. The study set-up was a Randomized Complete Block Design with heaping ears on platforms, on bare ground, and tarpaulin on the ground as treatments. Four farm fields each in Koradaso-Dormaa Ahenkro and Garu in Bono and Upper East Regions of Ghana, respectively, were selected for the study. The fields served as experimental blocks (replications). Data on aflatoxin and fumonisin levels in maize were taken as soon as the heaps had been set up and at 1, 3, 7, and 14 days after heaping. Aflatoxin levels in maize ears reduced significantly or did not change in heaps on platforms over a 14-day period. In the case of heaps on the ground and tarpaulin, levels increased over a 14-day period. With the exception of heaping on the ground during the major season in the Middle Belt, aflatoxin and fumonisin levels were below the recommended safe threshold of 15 ppb and 4 ppm, respectively, in all the scenarios. The study showed that heaping maize on platforms mitigates mycotoxin contamination whereas heaping on the ground and tarpaulin exacerbate contamination.

Detection of total fumonisins produced by Fusarium verticillioides (Sacc) isolates from maize kernels in Ethiopia

Fusarium verticillioides is the most common fungal pathogen of maize in Ethiopia. Many strains of this pathogen produce fumonisin myotoxins that are harmful to human and animal health. This study was conducted to determine the fumonisin-producing ability of isolates of F. verticillioides isolated from maize kernels collected from different maize- growing areas of the country. Eighty F. verticillioides isolates were grown on autoclaved maize cultures for one month, and the fumonisin content was quantified using Enzyme Linked Immunosorbent Assay (ELISA). All the 80 isolates evaluated were able to produce detectable levels of total fumonisins in the maize culture with values ranging from 0.25 to 38.01 mg of the toxin per kg of culture material (fungal biomass and maize kernels). The mean levels of total fumonisins produced by the F. verticillioides isolates were not significantly (p>0.05) different among maize growing areas, however, the total fumonisins levels produced by isolates obtained from the same area as well as agroecological zones were wide-ranging. The results indicate that the majority (57.5%) of the F. verticillioides isolates associated with maize grains in Ethiopia produced total fumonisins >4 mg/kg, while 35% of the isolates produced total fumonisins <2 mg/kg. The widespread occurrence of higher fumonisin-producing strains across all maize-growing areas in Ethiopia indicates a possible food safety risk. Thus, efforts should be made to prevent the spread of this fungus with good agronomic practices and to implore all possible ways to avoid maize contamination with fumonisin both in the field and in storage.

Asian Corn Borer (Ostrinia furnacalis) Infestation Increases Fusarium verticillioides Infection and Fumonisin Contamination in Maize and Reduces the Yield.

Field trials based on manual infestation of the Asian corn borer (ACB) (Ostrinia furnacalis [Guenée]) and Fusarium verticillioides (Nirenberg) atomization were conducted on four maize hybrids to investigate the relationship between ACB infestation and F. verticillioides infection, yield loss, and fumonisin contamination in maize. Analysis of fumonisins B1 and B2 was carried out using an LC-MS/MS system. In this study, manual ACB infestation significantly promoted F. verticillioides infection (both symptomatic and symptomless) and grain fumonisin levels. Ear rot incidence and severity, symptomless kernel infection, and fumonisin contamination were significantly correlated to each other and to ACB damage severity. Manual ACB infestation increased fumonisin levels from 580 to 4,418 µg/kg in 2018; 6,059 to 10,681 µg/kg in 2019 spring-sown maize (2019A); and 2,042 to 5,060 µg/kg in 2019 summer-sown maize (2019B), with the threshold of the European Union (EU) being 4,000 µg/kg. The threshold was exceeded in spring of 2019 in untreated controls. Regarding yield, significant negative correlation between ACB damage and ear weight was observed in three seasons. These results indicated that ACB infestation can lead to severe quality degradation and yield loss of maize. Kernel fumonisin levels may exceed the concentration threshold of the EU in certain conditions, threatening the health of livestock and humans. Measures should be taken to reduce ACB infestation to ensure food and feed security.

Analysis on contamination status and dietary exposure assessment of fumonisins in cereal and oil food samples of a coastal city in northern China

Fumonisin is a class 2B carcinogen, which can pollute many food varieties and has been proved to be carcinogenic and teratogenic. 258 pieces cereal and oil food samples were collected from 14 districts in Yantai city from farmers' homes, supermarkets and farmers' markets. The contamination level of fumonisins was detected by High-performance liquid chromatography-tandem mass spectrometry. The pollution level of fumonisin was determined by CODEX STAN 193-1995 and EC No 1881/2006. We conducted quantitative risk assessment of fumonisins through the Daily intake (EDI) and Hazard Quotient (HQ) by point assessment method. Corn and its products were multiple polluted by FBs, and the pollution degree of corn flour and corn-based cake were higher than that of corn kernels. The food exposure risk of FBs in 2-6 years old was higher than that of standard population, urban standard population and rural standard population. The exposure risk of fumonisins in high consumption group was higher than that in general consumption group. The food exposure risk of corn with average content of fumonisins was basically at an acceptable level, but corn and its products with high FBs content caused greater risk for children aged 2-6 years old and adults with high corn consumption.

Fusarium proliferatum secondary metabolite profile in vitro depends on the origin of the isolates and is clearly reduced in stored garlic

Fusarium proliferatum as well as F. oxysporum are pathogens with a broad host range that includes garlic (Allium sativum). The losses of garlic due to these pathogens increased over the last years. Especially F. proliferatum was identified several times as the main cause of postharvest dry rot. This species is also known to produce mycotoxins, especially fumonisins. In this study, we aimed to identify and study the phylogeny of the Fusarium species diversity in garlic planting as well as stored material from two cultivars over two seasons. In addition, we surveyed the secondary metabolite production of the isolates obtained from this experimental design as well as in stored garlic intended for consumption. A total of 85 isolates were examined of which 84 % were identified as F. proliferatum. The distribution of the two species was similar for both seasons. In the phylogeny, no influence of season, planting material or stored garlic or cultivar could be detected. In contrast, an influence of the origin of the isolates on the broad spectrum of secondary metabolites could be demonstrated. The isolates showed strong production of fumonisins and other Fusarium metabolites in vitro. 25 % of the commercial garlic bulbs were contaminated with low levels of fumonisin, while 88 % were contaminated with moniliformin. Our results might indicate, that moniliformin plays a role in pathogenesis.

Mycotoxins and Crop Yield in Maize as Affected by Irrigation Management and Tillage Practices

In addition to the weather conditions, agronomic practices can have a major influence on maize crop yield and contamination with mycotoxins. In this work, the effect of different irrigation systems (flood vs. sprinkler irrigation), sprinkler irrigation management (low vs. high frequency, daytime vs. nighttime irrigation) and tillage practices (conventional tillage, no tillage with or without crop stover) on crop yield and the contamination with aflatoxins (AFs), fumonisins (FUM) and deoxynivalenol (DON) were evaluated in the maize grain from two experimental maize fields. No aflatoxins were detected in any of the samples analyzed. DON and FUM levels were significantly higher when the sprinkler irrigation was performed at nighttime (0.54 and 1.21 mg kg−1, respectively) as compared to daytime (0.38 and 0.45 mg kg−1). Likewise, DON and FUM were greater when irrigation frequency was low (0.61 and 1.09 mg kg−1, respectively) in comparison with high frequency (0.30 and 0.57 mg kg−1). DON concentrations were significantly higher in fields with sprinkler irrigation (0.53 mg kg−1) as compared to flood irrigation (0.19 mg kg−1), while the levels of FUM were very similar regardless of the maize irrigation system. Mycotoxin concentrations were not affected by the different soil tillage practices. This highlights the importance of implementing crop management practices to minimize the risk of mycotoxin contamination in maize.