Abstract

Aflatoxins are toxic metabolites from Aspergillus molds found in various organic materials. Analyzing aflatoxin levels in maize is essential for public health and food security. Aflatoxins compromise food quality and pose health hazards. These carcinogenic toxins, produced by specific molds (Aspergillus flavus and A. parasiticus) prevalent in warm, humid conditions, affect plant health. Key aflatoxins, B1, B2, G1 and G2, can enter the body through multiple exposure routes, triggering excessive inflammatory responses. Cereal grains are fundamental components of human diets, with maize being particularly significant in Nigeria and Kebbi State. However, maize is a conducive environment for various fungal contaminants, including Aspergillus and Fusarium, prompting this study on aflatoxin types and concentrations in maize. Nine grain samples were collected randomly from various markets in Kebbi South (Zuru, Ribah, Mahuta) and stored in new polythene bags. Fungi were isolated using the Standard Dilution Plate method on Potato Dextrose Agar. Aflatoxin levels were quantified via the ELISA method. Three fungal species identified were Aspergillus flavus, A. niger, and Geotrichum spp., with prevalence rates ranging from 16.66% to 50%. Aflatoxin concentrations in samples varied from 0.003 to 2.025. Results indicated that cereal grains sold in Kebbi South were contaminated with various fungal species, including aflatoxin producers. Most samples tested positive for aflatoxins, yet none exceeded the NAFDAC's permissible limits of 10g/kg for humans and 50 ppb for animals.

Key words: Aflatoxins, Potato Dextrose Agar, ELISA Test, Cereals and Maize