THE PREVALENCE AND IMPACT OF AFLATOXIN CONTAMINATION IN NUTS AND DRY FRUITS

Abstract

Aflatoxins are toxic, carcinogenic secondary metabolites produced by Aspergillus flavus, and they are responsible for the contamination of nuts and dried fruits. The aim of the study was to determine the prevalence of aflatoxin contamination in nuts and dried fruits sold in different countries. Dried fruits could contain harmful mycotoxins, posing a risk to health. Fungi, which are integral components of the soil, cause contamination of many food products, including dried fruits and nuts. This fungal burden not only leads to the deterioration of these nutrients but is also responsible for mycoses and mycotoxicoses in consumers, especially immunocompromised individuals. The high burden of aflatoxigenic and drug-resistant fungi in edible products such as dried fruits and nuts poses an immediate threat to the human population and therefore requires rapid control. Aflatoxins were found in food and feed globally, and their economic impact was extensively studied. This review examined the risks of consuming moldy produce and the potential for infection by aflatoxigenic fungi. It also discussed the previous state of aflatoxin contamination in various countries worldwide. Aflatoxins were detected in a range of foods and feeds, with dried fruits (almonds, raisins) and nuts (peanuts, pistachios, walnuts, cashews, etc.) being the primary sources. This review also focuses on the impact of aflatoxin on the health.