Incidence of mycotoxin producing fungi in sorghum sourced from different markets of Eritrea
Paper Details
Incidence of mycotoxin producing fungi in sorghum sourced from different markets of Eritrea
Abstract
Sorghum serves as staple food for over 100 million people in Sub-Saharan African countries. It is the most important nutritional security crop. However, sorghum is susceptible to contamination by molds that produces aflatoxin that causes hepatoxin and carcinogenic effects on humans and animals. This study was conducted to survey sorghum storage conditions in relation to mycotoxin contamination and to determine the efficacy of neem against Aspergillus flavus. The survey was done through questionnaires in Asmara, Keren and Asmat. The survey determined that sorghum is stored together with other cereals in all the markets. It also determined that sorghum sold in Asmara, Keren and Asmat is obtained from different places such as; Anseba, Mendefara, Gashbaka and Halhale. The survey also determined that most of the sorghum in the markets has been in storage for between 3-12 months with very little being stored longer than 1 year. In terms of control, sorghum sellers use a combination of fungicide and local remedies to eliminate pests and diseases. The common fungicide reported to be used was Tanphos with the local remedies used being; chillies, neem, lime and ash. We identified mycotoxins such as Fusarium and Aspergillus spp. in sorghum seed obtained from different markets of Eritrea. Treatment with neem was found effective as it diminished the radial growth of Aspergillus flavus. The concentration of mycotoxins specifically Aspergillus flavus in all sorghum samples was found to be higher. Therefore, attention should be given by responsible authorities to mitigate the effects of the mycotoxins.
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