Incidences of Fungal Contamination by Aspergillus section Flavi in major spices being sold in Central India

Anjali Dongre

Volume : IX, Issue : II, February - 2020

Incidences of Fungal Contamination by Aspergillus section Flavi in major spices being sold in Central India

Anjali Dongre

Abstract :

Aspergillus species belonging to section Flavi, are potential aflatoxin producing fungi. A total of 100 samples belonging to 11 different spices from Central India were examined for the fungal contamination with special reference to Aspergillus species. Aspergillus section Nigri and Flavi were the dominant sections, isolated from 78.5% of the samples, infected with fungi. Two members of Aspergillus section Flavi; Aspergillus flavus and A. parasiticus were isolated from 36 samples. Their aflatoxigenic potential was checked via thin layer chromatography, which showed that 59% of the isolates showed mycotoxigenic properties, with aflatoxin B1 as predominant aflatoxin. The results showed that the spices, sold in Central India, are prone to be contaminated with aflatoxins and can present a severe health hazard.