Aflatoxin Contamination of Arachis hypogaea (Groundnuts) in Lagos Area of Nigeria

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Date
2003
Authors
Thomas A.E.
Coker H.A.B.
Odukoya O.A.
Isamah G.K.
Adepoju-Bello A.
Journal Title
Journal ISSN
Volume Title
Publisher
Bulletin of Environmental Contamination and Toxicology
Abstract
Human populations are exposed to aflatoxins as a result of the consumption of commodities particularly grams and nuts) that have been directly contaminated by the aflatoxin producing strains of Aspergillus flavus and Aspergilus parasiticus during growth, harvest or storage (Busby and Wogan 1984). The occurrence and magnitude of aflatoxins contamination varies also with geographical and seasonal factors. Crops in tropical and subtropical areas are more susceptible to contamination than those in temperate regions, since optimal conditions for toxin formation are prevalent in areas with high humidity and temperature (Diener and Davis 1969). Grains and food stuffs capable of being contaminated with aflatoxins have been reported by Busby and Wogan and the level of contamination can vary from less than lppb to over 12ppb. In Nigeria, grains like groundnuts (Arachis hypogaea) have become a staple food among the populace and there is need to consider the sporadic nature of the infestation of these nuts. In this study, the level of aflatoxin contamination of groundnuts (roasted, steamed and raw), was evaluated, using ultraviolet-visible spectrophotometric and high performance liquid chromatographic methods.
Description
Scholarly articles
Keywords
Aflatoxins , Arachis hypogaea , Human populations , Crops , Research Subject Categories::PHARMACY::Pharmaceutical chemistry
Citation
Thomas AE, Coker HAB, Odukoya OA, Isamah GK and Adepoju-Bello A, (2003). Aflatoxin contamination of Arachis hypogaea (Groundnuts) in Lagos Area of Nigeria. Bulletin of Environmental contamination and Toxicology, 71 (1): 42-45.