Seasonal Variations In Aflatoxin B1 Levels In Corn And Wheat: An Observational Study
Keywords:
aflatoxin B1, corn, statistical analysis, seasonal variation, wheatAbstract
Aflatoxin B1 is considered the most toxic aflatoxin, produced by fungi of the genus Aspergillus, which can contaminate corn and wheat, especially under conditions of high humidity and temperature, leading to harmful effects on both human and animal health. To ensure a safe final product, aflatoxin B1 levels in food and feed are strictly regulated by international standards. For instance, the European Union sets maximum limits of 5 ppb for AFB1 and 20 ppb for total aflatoxins in animal feed. Therefore, continuous monitoring is essential to protect public health and maintain agricultural market stability.This study aimed to analyse the concentration of aflatoxin B1 in corn and wheat samples collected from a farm in northeastern Romania. A total of thirty feed samples (seven wheat and twenty-three corn) were examined over two distinct periods autumn-winter and spring-summer. Statistical analysis revealed significant differences between the two types of feed (P < 0.05), as well as between the two seasons (P < 0.001). The average aflatoxin B1 concentration was 4.788 ppb during the autumn-winter season and 4.157 ppb in the spring-summer season, with a mean seasonal difference of 0.63 ppb. These findings confirm that aflatoxin B1 levels vary depending on both feed type and seasonal conditions.
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