Toxigenic fungal contamination of cocoa-based beverages: A possible public health concern in a tropical country

Authors

  • Chinwe Christy Isitua Afe Babalola University Nigeria
  • Isaiah-Nnanna Ibeh
  • Tony Ifeanyi Ojiezeh

DOI:

https://doi.org/10.29076/issn.2602-8360vol2iss2.2018pp7-12p

Abstract

Food safety is a call for concern nowadays. Food borne disease and microbial spoilage of food result from the failure of or inability to control microorganisms at one or more stages of food chain, from raw material production to consumption of the final product. This study was undertaken to screen some cocoa-based beverages sold in Nigeria in order to ascertain the mycological and aflatoxin status of such foods. Seventy-nine (79) samples of different brand of cocoa beverages collected from different markets in Benin City, Nigeria was evaluated by estimating the fungal load; using standard plate count method, and aflatoxin B1(AFB1) level by immunoaffinity silica gel column extraction and thin layer chromatography with spectrophotometric detection. Colonies of mould isolated from the samples were identified by standard mycological methods as Aspergillus flavus, Aspergillus niger and Aspergillus fumigatus. Zamis beverage sample recorded the highest fungal count of 5500 cfu/g, AFB1 level of 40.6 ± 3.2 μg/kg and moisture content of 4,00%; while Peak beverage sample recorded the least fungal count of 500 cfu/g, AFB1 level of 5.3 ± 2.5
μg/kg and 1.00% moisture content. AFB1 was not detected in Ovaltine and Benco beverage samples. The most frequent genera of moulds in all samples was A. flavus, having an incidence of 63.3%. Sachet cocoa-based beverages sold in Benin metropolis carry potential health hazard. Thus, improved handling through food processing, preservation and storage can minimize aflatoxins in foodstuffs and ensure sustainable quality of food supply. This findings suggest needs for urgent attention to the possible public health implications.

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Author Biography

  • Chinwe Christy Isitua, Afe Babalola University Nigeria

    PhD en Microbiología

    Docente Investigador-Afe Babalola University Nigeria

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Published

2018-07-11

Issue

Vol. 2 No. 2 (2018): JUNIO-NOVIEMBRE 2018

Section

ARTICULOS

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How to Cite

Toxigenic fungal contamination of cocoa-based beverages: A possible public health concern in a tropical country. (2018). FACSALUD-UNEMI, 2(2), 7-12. https://doi.org/10.29076/issn.2602-8360vol2iss2.2018pp7-12p