Abstract
Mycotoxin contamination in grains is a significant concern due to its adverse effects on human and animal health. Understanding the levels and patterns of mycotoxin contamination in different regions and storage conditions is crucial for developing effective control strategies. This study aimed to assess mycotoxin levels in stored and recently harvested grains in three regions (Idah, Ajaka, and Ogbogbo) and investigate the implications for food safety. The study involved the analysis of mycotoxin levels in maize, rice, sorghum, and millet using appropriate mycotoxin extraction method based on the mycotoxins of interest and a suitable HPLC system. The findings revealed the presence of mycotoxins such as aflatoxins (1±0.2-5±0.4 µg kg(-1)), deoxynivalenol (520±0.8-700±1.2 µg kg(-1)), zearalenone (200±0.4-370±0.6 µg kg(-1)), ochratoxins (2±0.2-4±0.3 µg kg(-1)), and fumonisin (0±0.0-4±0.3 µg kg(-1)) in both recently harvested and stored grains. Patulin was absent in most of the samples. Variations in mycotoxin levels were observed among different grains and regions, highlighting the need for targeted interventions. The European Commission mycotoxin standards in grains for human consumption are: aflatoxins 4 µg kg(-1) in maize, millet and sorghum while rice is 8 µg kg(-1), deoxynivalenal 1750 µg kg(-1), zearalenone 100 µg kg(-1), ochratoxin A 5 µg kg(-1) for maize, rice and millet, then 10 µg kg(-1) for sorghum. Fumonisin is 4000 µg kg(-1) but no level for rice and patulin is 50 µg kg(-1) for rice and none for the other grains. This study demonstrates the persistence of mycotoxin contamination in stored grains and the importance of considering specific crop types and geographical locations when addressing mycotoxin contamination. The findings underscore the significance of implementing effective control measures to mitigate mycotoxin contamination and enhance food safety. The study provides valuable insights into mycotoxin contamination and emphasizes the need for comprehensive risk assessment studies and appropriate regulatory measures.