Total Aflatoxin Levels Research Articles

Determination of Total Aflatoxins in Polished Rice by Liquid Chromatography-Fluorescence Detection with Multifunctional Column Cleanup and Precolumn Derivatization: Single-Laboratory and Inter-Laboratory Validation Studies.

Aflatoxins are toxic metabolites produced by Aspergillus spp. Because aflatoxins are potent carcinogens in humans and animals, many countries have set regulatory limits for aflatoxins in foods to prevent dietary exposure. From a global food safety perspective, in 2023, the Codex Alimentarius Commission established the maximum level (ML) of total aflatoxins in certain cereals and cereal-based products, including polished rice. Therefore, validated analytical methods for aflatoxin detection are necessary. In this study, a high performance liquid chromatography (HPLC)-fluorescence method coupled with multifunctional column clean-up and trifluoroacetic acid derivatization was developed for the determination of aflatoxin levels in polished rice. Our method was validated in a single laboratory study using aflatoxin-spiked materials, followed by an inter-laboratory validation study. Twelve laboratories participated in the inter-laboratory validation study, and five polished rice test samples artificially contaminated with aflatoxins were analyzed. In a single laboratory study, the ranges of mean recoveries of aflatoxin B1, B2, G1, G2, and total aflatoxins were 101%, 100-103%, 93-96%, 95-98%, and 97-99%, respectively. The relative standard deviations for within-day and between-day variations were all ≤ 4.4%. In the inter-laboratory validation study, the relative standard deviations for repeatability and reproducibility were from 0.7 to 2.7% and 3.3 to 8.9% for all analytes, respectively. In response to the Codex ML and method performance criteria for aflatoxins in polished rice, an analytical method based on HPLC-fluorescence detection was developed. All method performance parameters estimated from the testing results of the single-laboratory and inter-laboratory validation studies met the criteria required by the Codex. Single- and inter-laboratory studies for the validation of an analytical method for aflatoxin level determination in polished rice were successfully performed. This analytical method will be suitable to determine aflatoxin levels around the Codex ML set for polished rice.

Effect of Nixtamalization on Aflatoxins, Functional and Acceptability of Maize from Mulindi, Rwanda

Rwanda relies highly on maize for human food as well as for animal feed and industrial uses. However, high temperature and wet climate conditions in Rwanda favor the growth of fungi that may lead to mycotoxin contamination in maize and subsequent degradation of its quality. Therefore, this study aimed to assess the effect of nixtamalization on the aflatoxins, the functional and acceptability of maize grains from Mulindi, Rwanda. The maize samples were collected from the Mulindi market in Rwanda; representative samples were collected by the guidelines for sampling food for mycotoxin determination. Subsequently, the treated maize samples were dry-milled to produce fine flour, and the flour obtained was analyzed for swelling capacity, water absorption capacity, water solubility, acceptability, and aflatoxins, which were quantified by the HPLC method. The HPLC results showed that the highest total aflatoxin level in maize grains was 44.99 ppb. Cooking maize in water and calcium hydroxide of 1% resulted in a reduction of aflatoxin with degradation percentages of 25% and 88%, respectively. However, in all treatments, aflatoxins B1 and B2 were less reduced compared to aflatoxins G1 and G2. Cooking maize in pure water showed the lowest reduction of aflatoxin compared to the other treatments. However, cooking maize in water with 1% calcium hydroxide decreased aflatoxin to a higher percentage. Cooking maize in lime enhanced the swelling capacity, water absorption capacity, and water solubility of maize, as well as its acceptability. However, the nixtamalization process was observed to reduce aflatoxins levels in maize and improve the functional properties of maize, and therefore, its application could be encouraged for safe products in the market.

Aflatoxins in maize flour produced in Mozambique and its risk assessment

ABSTRACT This study investigated the occurrence of aflatoxins (B1, B2, G1, and G2) in maize flour produced in Mozambique and to assess the associated carcinogenic risk. At different opportunities, 30 samples of maize flour were collected in five flour processing factories. These were determined by high-performance liquid chromatography (HPLC) with fluorescence detection. AFB1 concentrations ranged from 0.25 to 0.33 μg kg−1. The levels of total aflatoxins ranged from 0.55 to 1.05 μg kg−1, with a mean of 0.89 μg kg−1, for which maximum limits (MLs) are 10 and 4 μg kg−1 for Mozambique and the European Union, respectively. The calculated Margin of Exposure (MOE) for men and women was 243 and 231, respectively, so several folds below the risk cut-off level, indicating that consumption of such maize flour poses a potential risk of hepatocarcinoma related to aflatoxin exposure due to high intake of this food, a staple diet in most African countries.

Evaluation of aflatoxin content in “Cheka” (traditional beverage in South-Western Ethiopia) and its major ingredient (maize)

BackgroundAflatoxin is a toxic cancerous fungal secondary metabolite produced by Aspergillus species. Consumption of aflatoxin-contaminated cereals and their products can cause several health-related effects including acute and chronic aflatoxicosis. This study aims to evaluate the total aflatoxin content in “Cheka” and its major ingredients using the Immuno-Affinity Column Clean-up technique by sensitive HPLC (High-Performance Liquid Chromatography) with fluorescence detection.MethodsThis study followed a completely randomized experimental design to evaluate the level of aflatoxin in traditionally brewed “Cheka” and its major ingredients (maize) by HPLC from November 2019 to June 2020. Traditionally brewed 6 “Cheka” beverages and 6 maize seed samples were collected randomly from Konso and transported to Bless Agri Food Laboratory in Addis Ababa for laboratory evaluation of aflatoxin in samples. The data were analyzed by SPSS version 25.ResultsIn the present study aflatoxin contamination was detected in all maize and “Cheka” samples. A mean total aflatoxin level of 6.78 ± 8.28 μg/kg and 10.76 ± 4.50 μg/kg were observed in maize and “Cheka” samples respectively. The maize taken from above-ground storage (“Gotera”) and underground storage (pitfall) showed a mean total aflatoxin level of 10.23 ± 10.12 μg/kg and 3.35 ± 5.79 μg/kg respectively. The samples taken from “Cheka” prepared from maize of above-ground storage (“Gotera”) and underground storage (pitfall) showed a mean total aflatoxin level of 11.34 ± 3.06 μg/kg and 10.19 ± 6.35 μg/kg respectively. Aflatoxin G family was not detected in both maize and “Cheka” samples while aflatoxin B1 and B2 contributed to the total aflatoxin level. AFB1 predominantly contributed to the contamination of all samples. Although there was no significant difference while comparing between mean total aflatoxin of any other sample types, a significant difference was observed for the AFB1 mean level of pitfall maize and their respective “Cheka” samples (P = 0.033).ConclusionThe mean level of AFB1 in pitfall maize differs from a respective “Cheka” sample. As most of the samples evaluated for aflatoxin contamination showed levels above healthy cut-off points of aflatoxin set by different authorities like the European Union, CODEX, and Ethiopian Standards Agency, there must be a protracted interventional approach to reduce aflatoxin contamination in maize and its products in the region.

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.

Aflatoxin contamination of household stored grains for smallholder farmers in Dodoma, Tanzania

Abstract Aflatoxins are toxic and carcinogenic secondary metabolites, produced by Aspergillus flavus and Aspergillus parasiticus, which contaminate stored grains including maize, groundnuts and sunflower seeds and cause negative health effects to both humans and animals. The aim of this study was to determine the level of aflatoxins contamination of household stored grains (maize, groundnuts and sunflower seeds) in Dodoma, Tanzania. Immuno-affinity high performance liquid chromatography with post column derivatization was used to analyse AFB1, AFB2, AFG1, AFG2 and total aflatoxins in 45 samples. Out of 45 samples, 38% were contaminated with aflatoxins; the highest mean levels of total aflatoxins were observed in groundnuts (269 μg/kg) followed by maize (74.9 μg/kg) and lastly sunflower (0.2 μg/kg). About 27% of maize and 67% of groundnut samples had higher levels of AFB1 and total aflatoxins beyond the East African Community limits of 5 and 10 μg/kg, respectively. The mean moisture contents were 9.6% for maize, 4.1% for groundnuts and 5.7% for sunflower seeds. These moisture levels were far below the recommended safe storage moisture levels of 13.5% for maize, 8% for groundnuts and 10% for sunflower seeds. Such moisture levels would not allow mould growth and subsequent aflatoxins contamination. It suggests that contamination could have occurred in the field or during the drying stages before reaching the observed moisture levels. Therefore, there is a need to conduct further study to assess aflatoxin contamination in the field, during drying operations and storage to identify the critical stage for intervention. Moreover, farmers should be trained on best management and handling practices to prevent contamination.

Maize meal (posho) served at selected boarding schools in western Uganda is highly contaminated with aflatoxins

Abstract The study aimed to evaluate food handling practices and assess the maize-bean supply chain in selected boarding schools of western Uganda. Additionally, it sought to determine the extent of aflatoxin exposure in the maize-bean meal consumed by students within the age range of 5 to 24. A cross-sectional study was conducted in two districts of Bushenyi and Sheema to gather 95 samples (31 beans, 32 maize flour, and 32 cooked maize flour-posho). In addition, 262 individual interviews were conducted. The findings revealed that only 9.38% of the schools store food as per World Health Organisation standards. The majority of schools (57.9%) purchase maize flour and beans from any stockist with no contractual obligations (random supplier), and all the 32 schools base on visual parameters, especially white colour, and smell to rule out aflatoxin contamination. Maize flour stored on the ground registered significantly (P = 0.0018) higher levels (54.3 ± 10.1 μg/kg) of total aflatoxins than that stored on a raised platform (14.7 ± 2.6 μg/kg). Likewise, the supplier significantly influenced total aflatoxins levels (P = 0.0064), with higher levels (44.6 ± 8.0 μg/kg) detected in maize flour supplied by a random supplier than a pre-qualified one (14.7 ± 2.6 μg/kg). Given the low levels (1.3 to 2.8 μg/kg), which are far less than the Maximum Tolerated Limit (MTL) of 10 μg/kg, aflatoxins do not pose a significant problem in beans. Aflatoxins exposure in younger children (5-12 years) was higher (61.5 ng/kg bw/day) than in older ones (13-24 years; 41.5 ng/kg bw/day). Similarly, the risk of developing hepatocellular carcinoma was greater in younger children (1.84 cases per 100,000 people) compared to older ones (1.24 cases per 100,000 people). The findings underscore an urgent need to formulate guidelines for procurement, storage, and food handling in schools, alongside intensifying inspection programmes for food handling. Additionally, there is need to expand the research scope by incorporating a greater number of schools from varied geographical areas within Uganda, while rigorously monitoring the entirety of the food supply chain.

Determination and Comparison of Total Aflatoxin Levels in Groundnuts from Four Major Markets in Lagos State, Nigeria

Aflatoxins (Aspergillus flavus toxins) are poisonous substances produced by some fungi on crops, foods, and feeds. The study was carried out to determine and to compare total aflatoxin levels in groundnuts sold in Lagos markets, Nigeria. Microbiological and toxicology tests were carried out on raw, boiled, and roasted groundnuts from the same source. The microbiological test was carried out to detect the fungi that produce aflatoxins as their secondary metabolite. The groundnuts samples were cultured on Potato Dextrose Agar (PDA). The isolates were identified using standard microbiological methods, characteristics such as presence of spores, shape, colour of spores and presence of septa were used in identification. Aspergillus flavus (75%; percentage of occurrence) was the most frequently isolated fungus from the groundnut samples. The other contaminant isolated from the samples were Aspergillus niger (25%). The toxicology analysis was carried out to determine the production of aflatoxins and the level present in the groundnut. This was carried out using a Romer Mycosep Column kit for aflatoxin to clean-up, and High-Performance Liquid Chromatography (HPLC) to detect the aflatoxins and determine the levels. Total aflatoxins were detected in the groundnuts, and they ranged between 0.36 ppb and 0.42 ppb. The levels of total aflatoxins were not beyond the regulatory standard of National Agency for Food and Drugs Administration and Control- NAFDAC (for ready to eat food, 4µg/kg while food that will still undergo processing 20µg/kg). Thus, the groundnut samples from the four markets are fit for consumption.

Aflatoxin exposure and risk assessment among peri-urban low income population in Kampala Capital City, Uganda

Kampala Capital City (KCC) is home to over 3.7 million residents majority of whom are low -income earners who depend on low-cost cereals and legumes for food. These foods are mainly purchased from retail shops and open markets that expose them to mould and aflatoxin contamination. This study assessed total aflatoxin exposure arising from consumption of maize and groundnuts based products by KCC dwellers, and the associated cancer risk. The study was conducted in two divisions of KCC targeting mothers (15–49 years) and children (6–59 months). Results indicate that the majority of the household heads were engaged in low-income occupations with 35 % earning less than US $ 1 a day. Over half of the households purchased cereals and legumes once to twice a week and stored the food in polypropylene or polythene bags. The mean maize consumption rate was 128.7 and 189.9 g/person/day for children and mothers, respectively, while that for groundnuts was 71.6 (children) and 110 (women) g/person/day. Groundnut flour samples recorded the highest proportion (76 %) of samples that tested positive for aflatoxins with a mean total of 37.94 µg/kg (0.04 - 296.4 µg/kg). Only 28 % of the maize flour samples tested positive with a mean total of 27.9 µg/kg (0.04 - 345.8). The mean total aflatoxin levels in both maize (27.9 µg/kg) and groundnuts (37.94 µg/kg) were above the minimum regulatory limit of 10 µg/kg set by the Uganda National Bureau of Standards. The estimated total aflatoxin intake ranged between 0.01 and 0.91 µg/kg/BW/day in both women and children while the estimated total aflatoxin exposure was above the daily intake limit of 0.017 µg/kg BW/day recommended by the European Food Safety Agency. The derived risk of developing primary liver cancer was 5.4 and 7.6 cancer cases per 100,000 individuals per year for children 6–59 months and mothers 15–49 years respectively. The study findings suggest that consumption of maize and groundnuts based foods by low income dwellers in KCC is associated with health risks as it could lead to development of primary liver cancer. Interventions such as; sensitization of all value chain actors, enforcement of existing aflatoxin standards, and boosting household income to enhance household dietary diversity need to be put in place to reduce aflatoxin exposure and its related health risks.

Incidences of aflatoxin contaminations in ingredients, feed and products of poultry from two regions in Ghana

Commercial poultry feed required for proper growth of birds and egg production contains essential nutrients with maize as key component. Inadequately dried maize is prone to aflatoxin contamination and therefore when used in feed formulation for poultry may compromise the safety of the feeds and poultry products. This study investigated the levels of aflatoxins in feed ingredients, feed and poultry products sampled from Eastern and Greater -Accra regions of Ghana. The aflatoxin levels of B1, B2, G1, and G2 were determined using a High-Performance Liquid Chromatography (HPLC) methodology. Main feed ingredients used were fishmeal, cotton seed cake, soya meal, rice, wheat and maize bran as well as maize grains. There was correlation between the level of aflatoxins and moisture content in poultry feed ingredients. All the poultry feeds (100 %) analysed showed the presence of aflatoxins with total aflatoxins recorded ranging from 5.32 to 29.88 μg/kg. Maize samples of the poultry feeds, from all two regions, revealed maize to be a major contributor to the overall total aflatoxin contents found in the feed. Five (5) out of ten (10) communities investigated in the two (2) regions where the poultry feeds were examined recorded total aflatoxin levels in maize above the Ghana Standard Authority (GSA) specification of 20 μg/kg. Aflatoxins G1 and G2 were not detected in all samples of chicken meat and eggs. Total aflatoxin levels recorded for all chicken meat and eggs were below GSA specification of 5 μg/kg; implying that these products were safe for consumption.

Levels of total aflatoxins in maize and groundnuts across food value chains, gender and Agro-ecological zones of Uganda

Maize and groundnuts are traditional nutrient-rich and high economic value foods grown in Uganda. However, these crops are susceptible to aflatoxin contamination which may result into aflatoxicosis related illnesses. Occurrence of flatoxins in the foods varies across food value chains, gender and agro-ecological zones of Uganda. Therefore, we conducted a cross-sectional study in 80 maize and groundnut foodstuff from Masindi and Soroti agro-ecological districts respectively. We determined levels of total aflatoxins in maize and groundnut samples across food value chains, gender and agro-ecological zones. This was aimed at assessing safety and quality status of the foods in Uganda. Questionnaires were administered to obtain information on food handling practices. 500g of each food sample were obtained and analyzed for total aflatoxin levels using ELISA assay. Data was analyzed using descriptive and analytical statistics. In overall, 45% of maize and 30% of groundnut foods were contaminated with aflatoxins. Mean aflatoxin levels in foods from Eastern and Western agro-ecological zones were 0.052±0.036ppb and 0.045±0.033ppb respectively (p=0.124). Mean aflatoxin levels in groundnuts from both male and female respondents were coincidentally 0.052ppb. Whereas, the mean aflatoxin levels in maize from male and female respondents were 0.056±0.037ppb and 0.039±0.029ppb respectively. Across the food value chain, wholesaler groundnut foods contained the highest mean aflatoxin levels of 0.088ppb (p= 0.27). Growing high polyamine containing crops, routine testing of aflatoxin prone foods and sensitizing food value chain players are important aflatoxin control strategies.

Nijerya Kwara eyaletinde seçilmiş iki soğuk oda işletmesinde Scomber scombrus ve Clupea harengus’taki aflatoksin, bakteri ve ağır metal birikimi

Impurities found in fish have been a major cause of disease and illness to consumers. This study's objective was to evaluate the total aflatoxin, heavy metal and microbial load in two frozen fish: Scomber scombrus and Clupea harengus from two (2) cold room facilities in Omu-Aran and Ilorin. Heavy metals, aflatoxin and microbial load were investigated using standard methods. Health risk was also determined using health risk index (HRI), daily intake of metals (DIM), and health quotient (HQ), and total toxicity of metals (TTM). Cd, Cu, Ni, Pb, Mn and Cr did not differ significantly (p>0.05) in both species from both locations. Nickel was lower than the recommended limit by World Health Organization (WHO). Level of Mn and Cr were higher in both species. Mn load was higher in the muscles of the sampled fish than in the gills from September through to November with highest value of 1.26±0.08 and 1.30±0.12 obtained for S. scombrus and C. harengus. Highest concentrations of all metals was observed in the gills except manganese and copper [Cd = 0.03 (S. scombrus), Cr = 1.22±0.13 (S. scombrus), Ni = 0.025±0.04 (S. scombrus), Pb = 0.06±0.02 (S. scombrus)]. HRI was > 1 in the different age groups for the different metals. TTM was > 1 in both species. Total aflatoxin level was higher in the gills (4.25 – 5) ppb than in the muscle (1.5 - 3) ppb for both locations respectively. Vibrio spp. and non-coliform bacteria were high in both species from both locations. The study concludes that heavy metal loads (Mn, Cd, Cu, Cr, and Ni) were more than the permitted limitations imposed by FAO, WHO and EU legislation for fish and fish products placing consumers at health risk.

Aflatoxins and Ochratoxin A in Tea Sold in Lebanon: Effects of Type, Packaging, and Origin.

Tea is among the oldest and most-known beverages around the world, and it has many flavors and types. Tea can be easily contaminated in any of its production steps, especially with mycotoxins that are produced particularly in humid and warm environments. This study aims to examine the level of ochratoxin A (OTA) and total aflatoxin (AF) contamination in black and green tea sold in Lebanon, evaluate its safety compared to international standards, and assess the effect of different variables on the levels of OTA and AFs. For this, the Lebanese market was screened and all tea brands (n = 37; 24 black and 13 green) were collected twice. The Enzyme-Linked Immunoassay (ELISA) method was used to determine OTA and AFs in the samples. AFs and OTA were detected in 28 (75.7%) and 31 (88.6%) samples, respectively. The average of AFs in the positive (above detection limit: 1.75 μg/kg) samples was 2.66 ± 0.15 μg/kg, while the average of OTA in the positive (above detection limit: 1.6 μg/kg) samples was 3.74 ± 0.72 μg/kg. The mean AFs in black and green tea were 2.65 ± 0.55 and 2.54 ± 0.40 μg/kg, respectively, while for OTA, the mean levels were 3.67 ± 0.96 and 3.46 ± 1.09 μg/kg in black and green tea samples, respectively. Four brands (10.8%) contained total aflatoxin levels above the EU limit (4 μg/kg). As for OTA, all samples had OTA levels below the Chinese limit (5 μg/kg). No significant association (p > 0.05) was found between OTA and tea type, level of packaging, country of origin, country of packing, and country of distribution. However, AF contamination was significantly (p < 0.05) higher in unpacked tea, and in brands where the country of origin, packing, and distributor was in Asia. The results showed that the tea brands in Lebanon are relatively safe in terms of AFs and OTA.

Evaluation of the Total Aflatoxin Level in Certain Cereals and Legumes Highly Consumed in Mali

The World Summit on Sustainable Development (WSSD) reaffirmed lofty and ambitious goals on seven main issues. Similarly, the Consolidated Action Plan for Africa (CAAP) has set priority science and technology projects. The achievement of an essential objective; common to both, namely: "Agriculture and food security", will strongly depend on the good knowledge and sustainable use of biological diversity, particularly microbial. Mali depends largely on agriculture and needs an annual growth of 6% or more in this sector to achieve sustainable development in general. However, the contamination of cereals and legumes essential to reduce food insecurity in Africa, aggravated by the proliferation of toxigenic fungi, constitutes a main constraint to the supply of healthy foods. However, in order to optimally target and implement these options, it is imperative that mycotoxin contamination is quantified and mapped. Three hundred and eighty-four (384) representative samples (1-2 kg per sample) were collected from different markets in Koutiala, S?gou, Bamako and Koulikoro in 2018 and 2020 to determine their fungal flora, the natural incidence of mycotoxins. All samples analyzed were contaminated with fungi, in the range of 1.2.105 to 33.5.105 CFU/g. SAS software was used for all analyzes and differences were considered significant when p&lt;0.05. All cereals analyzed contain aflatoxins. Because of the high consumption and high levels of aflatoxins in beans and maize in the samples analyzed, we suggest periodic monitoring and the application of Hazard Analysis and Control (HACCP) prevention and control of mycotoxins in the production and industry of human food in Mali.

Determination of Multimycotoxin in Cereal-Based Products Sold in Open-Air Markets.

In this study, a total of 140 cereal-based foods sold in temporary open-air markets were analyzed by LC-MS/MS for aflatoxin B1, B2, G1, G2, ochratoxin (OTA), zearalenone (ZEN), deoxynivalenol (DON), fumonisin B1, fumonisin B2, citrinin (CIT), HT-2, and T-2 toxins. Breakfast cereals (n:27), cornmeal (n:41), extruded maize (n:32), and oatmeal (n:40) purchased from these alternative shopping areas created to meet the food needs of low-income people in the suburbs formed the sample set of the study. These foods, which are sold in areas that are out of legal control and greatly affected by external environmental conditions, are more open to health risks. Mycotoxins, chemicals of a biological origin, are some of the most important of these risks. In terms of public health, it is important to investigate the presence of mycotoxins in foods, which can cause acute and chronic diseases such as immunosuppression, genotoxic, estrogenic, teratogenic effect, cancer, and liver and kidney dysfunctions. Grain-based foods are often contaminated with a large number of mycotoxins, but legal regulations have not been prepared that consider the health risks associated with the co-existence of mycotoxins. Many of the studies have focused on the presence of a single mycotoxin and the risks it poses. As a result, aflatoxin B1 levels in 28.57% of the samples and total aflatoxin (B1 + B2 + G1 + G2) levels in 26.43% of the samples were determined to exceed the limits defined in the "Turkish Food Codex Contaminants Regulation". Citrinin could not be detected in any of the samples. The rate of mycotoxin occurrences above the limit of detection (LOD) in grain-based food samples ranged from 22.86% to 99.29%. Total aflatoxin (TAF) + Total Fumonisin (FUM) were found in 83.57% of the samples; TAF + FUM + OTA in 82.14%; TAF + FUM + OTA + T-2 in 44.29%; TAF + FUM + OTA + DON + HT-2, TAF + FUM + OTA + DON + T-2, and TAF + FUM + OTA + DON + ZEN in 22.86% of the samples.

Impact of green antioxidants on decreasing the aflatoxins percentage in peanut oil seed (Arachis hypogaea L.) during storage.

The present study conducted an experimental investigation to impede the degradation of peanut (Arachis hypogaea L.) seeds and enhance their quality while being stored. The efficacy of eco-friendly chemicals such as ascorbic acid, salicylic acid, acetic acid, and propionic acid in seed preservation was evaluated over a period of six months. After a period of six months of storage in a greenhouse, an examination was conducted on peanut seeds that had undergone treatment. Rhizoctonia was observed after Cephalothorax, whereas Aspergillus, Fusarium, and Penicillium were the prevailing fungi throughout the storage period. The optimal outcomes were obtained from the conversion of acetic acid to propionic acid. The study observed a decline in seed oil, protein, carbohydrates, germination percentage, energy, index, length, vigour index, dead and rotten seeds, rotted seedlings, and surviving healthy seedlings, with an increase in storage duration ranging from zero to six months. The application of 100% propionic acid to peanut seeds throughout the storage duration resulted in decreased occurrences of deceased seeds, decaying seeds, and deteriorated seedlings. Peanut seeds that underwent treatment with green chemical agents of moderate and high intensity were found to be free of aflatoxin B1. The highest levels of chlorophylls a and b, carotenoids, and total phenols were observed in seeds stored in greenhouses and treated with 100% propionic acid and acetic acid extract. The application of propionic acid 100%, acetic acid 100%, salicylic acid 4 g/l and ascorbic acid 4 g/l proved to be the most effective treatments for peanut seeds, exhibiting the lowest total aflatoxin level of 0.40. The correlation coefficient between shoot fresh weight and shoot dry weight was found to be 0.99, whereas the correlation coefficient between root dry weight and shoot length was 0.67. The seed chemical analysis, seedling characteristics, and germination characteristics were subjected to clustering analysis, resulting in the formation of two distinct groups. The first group consisted of germination percentage and energy levels across all time points (0-6 months), while the second group consisted of the remaining characteristics. The findings of this research propose the utilisation of 100% propionic acid as a viable method for preserving peanut seeds and preventing their deterioration during storage. The application of 100% acetic acid has been found to be effective in enhancing the quality of seeds and minimising losses.

Analysis of Aflatoxin Levels in Broiler Chicken Feed from Selected Farms in Nairobi City County, Kenya

Aflatoxin levels in animal feed should be observed from the farm to the table to ensure the safety of the feed to animals and humans. The contamination of cereals and other agricultural supplies used in animal feed production could happen in the farm in the pre-harvest phase or in the post-harvest phase. The study sought to determine Aflatoxin levels in broiler feed from selected farms in Nairobi City County. A total of 42 feed samples were collected. Samples were analyzed using the LCMS/MS technique. Results from the study show that Aflatoxin levels in broiler starter were; B1(17.26±3.07 ppb), B2 (2.44±0.84 ppb), G1 (8.87±2.41 ppb), G2 (0.9±0.44 ppb) and Total AF (29.47±6.13 ppb). Aflatoxin levels in broiler finisher were B1 (17.17±3.09 ppb), B2 (2.68±1.18 ppb), G1 (9.25±2.7 ppb), G2 (1±0.45 ppb) and Total AF (30.1±6.88 ppb). Results from analysis of feed samples showed that AFB1 levels in both broiler starter and broiler finisher were above the KEBS limit but were below the EAC, EU and WHO/FAO limit. Total Aflatoxin levels were above the KEBS limit but below the EAC limit. There is need to enhance the capacity of feed surveillance and monitoring in the country through various laboratory analysis techniques among various agencies in the feed value chain to ensure feed safety.

Fungal Infection and Mycotoxins Contamination on Farm-Stored Chickpea in Major Producing Districts of Ethiopia

Crop susceptibility to moisture content, quality of storage facilities in the farm contributes to fungal infections and mycotoxin contamination. Chickpea grain loss in many parts of the world has been due to inadequate and poor storage facilities, post-harvest activities leading to mycotoxins and fungal infections. The current research investigated the prevalence of fungal infection and mycotoxin level in farm chickpea across five major growing districts in Ethiopia. In the current study, fungal infection and mycotoxin concentrations were investigated in two Desi and Kabuli type varieties of samples containing 150 chickpea kernels collected from five districts in Ethiopia. Additionally, moisture content, relative humidity, and temperature were also investigated during sampling. Moisture levels ranged from 13.3 - 22.3% with a mean value of 16.4% across the five districts. There was no significant difference between the two varieties studied. Survey of different storage techniques used by farmers showed that polypropylene bags were most common and accounted for 54.7%, followed by gotta 45.3%. The total fungal infection in chickpea kernels across the sampled districts range 23 - 79%. Infection with Aspergillus genera was predominant, accounting for approximately 44.3% of the total (25 - 62.5%), followed by Penicillium spp. at 34.3% (10.9 - 55.3%) and Fusarium spp. 21.4% (9.6 - 42.3%) as the lowest. A cross the studied districts, chickpea germination ranged from 68.8% to 75.5%. Total aflatoxins levels ranged from 2.5 to 31.1 ppb and a mean of 17.4 ppb. Ochratoxin A concentrations ranged from 4.3 to 35.0 ppb, with a mean value of 10.6 ppb. Fumonisins (18.7%), ranged from 0.2 to 2.9 ppm and Deoxynivalenol (6.7%) ranged from 0.2 to 2.9 ppm. Chickpea samples had a high level of total aflatoxins (ppb), followed by ochratoxin A. Even though, the current co-occurrence of mycotoxins found is at low levels, it may adversely affect the health of regular consumers and the quality of Chickpea. Further investigations should be performed in different regions to help in advising and making decisions to the relevant government institutions on the appropriate measures to be undertaken.

Prevalence and stakeholders’ perception of mycotoxins in the Ghanaian poultry feed value chain

The poultry sector in Ghana has the potential to contribute significantly to domestic food and nutrition security. There is limited information regarding the knowledge of feed industry stakeholders on the presence of mycotoxins in poultry feed. This work was aimed at assessing the prevalence of aflatoxin and fumonisin in poultry feed, and mycotoxins awareness among stakeholders of the poultry feed value chain in Ghana. Three hundred and fifty (350) respondents consisting of 255 commercial poultry farmers, 85 feed processors and 16 feed vendors were involved in the study. AgraStrip® Quantitative test from RomerLab, USA was used to quantify total fumonisin and aflatoxin levels in the prepared feed samples. The study revealed that commercial feed producers, feed mills operators and on-farm feed processors are the three main sources of feed and ingredients for commercial poultry farmers in Ghana. The study identified a high level of mycotoxin contamination of feed and ingredients. Feed samples from the commercial feed processors recorded significantly lower aflatoxin levels (21.63+7.05 ppb, p&lt;0.008). However, the threshold of 15 ppb for the Ghana Standards Authority, FAO/WHO maximum permissible limit of 30 ppb and EU regulatory limit of 20 ppb for poultry feeds were exceeded by 70% of all the samples. Fumonisin levels were less than the 30mg/kg FDA guidance levels for maize and maize by-products intended for consumption by breeding poultry. From the study, a majority of the farmers (85%), vendors (87.5%) and all of the feed processors have their own feed storage facilities or warehouses. Storage problems identified by these stakeholders included pest infestation and mold development, which usually occur after a few weeks of storage to the end of the storage period. Sanitation was poor along the feed chain, particularly during feed formulation and storage. Awareness of mycotoxins and their effect on animal and human health was low among the respondents. Some of those who have heard about aflatoxins were not aware of what it is and its effect on the health of humans and animals. This threatens the management of mycotoxins in the poultry feed chain. Key words: aflatoxin, fumonisin, mycotoxin contamination, mycotoxin awareness, sanitation, poultry feed, feed processors

Evaluation of Agronomic Characteristics, Disease Incidence, Yield Performance, and Aflatoxin Accumulation among Six Peanut Varieties (Arachis hypogea L.) Grown in Kenya.

Diseases contribute to attainment of less than 50% of the local groundnut potential yield in Kenya. This study aimed to evaluate the agronomic characteristics (flowering and germination), disease incidence, yield performance (biomass, harvest index, 100-pod, 100-seed, and total pod weight), and aflatoxin accumulation in six peanut varieties. A field experiment was conducted using four newly improved peanut varieties: CG9, CG7, CG12, and ICGV-SM 90704 (Nsinjiro), and two locally used varieties: Homabay local (control) and 12991, and in a randomized complete block design with three replications. The disease identification followed the International Crop Research Institute for the Semi-Arid Tropics (ICRISAT) rating scale and further isolation of fungal contaminants was conducted by a direct plating technique using potato dextrose agar. The aflatoxin levels in the peanuts were determined after harvesting using the ultrahigh performance liquid chromatography and fluorescence detection (UHPLC-FLD) technique. ICGV-SM 90704 showed the least average disease incidence of 1.31 ± 1.75%, (P < 0.05); the lowest total aflatoxin levels (1.82 ± 1.41 μg kg-1) with a range 0.00-0.85 μg kg-1 for total aflatoxins and a range 0.00-1.24 μg kg-1 for Aflatoxin B1. The locally used varieties (12991 and the control) revealed the highest disease incidence (5.41 ± 8.31% and 7.41 ± 1.88%), respectively. ICGV-SM 90704 was the best performing among all the six varieties with an average total pod weight (9.22 ± 1.19 kg), 100-pod weight (262.93 ± 10.8 g), and biomass of (27.21 ± 5.05 kg) per row. The 12991 variety and the control showed the least total pod weight (1.60 ± 0.28 and 1.50 ± 1.11 kg, respectively) (P = 0.0001). The newly improved varieties showed lower disease rates, low levels of aflatoxins, and higher yields than the locally used varieties.