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Study to compare the aflatoxin content of Brazil nut kernels with that of the shell

Project Code: FS241008;
Publication:

A paper is in preparation for this project

22/06/2012

Food and Environment Research Agency, Sand Hutton, York YO41 1LZ
McDonald, S

The relationship between the level of aflatoxin contamination in Brazil nuts kernels in comparison to the level in the shell was investigated. A conversion factor was determined that could allow the estimation of the level of aflatoxins in the kernel when the concentration in the whole nut is measured (further work will be required to validate the conversion factor).

Data produced in this project support the conclusion that initially aflatoxin contamination occurs on the shell, or more particularly on the surface of the kernel at the interface with the shell, with little contamination on the kernel. However, as the infection increases, the amount of aflatoxin on the kernel increases dramatically and the aflatoxin on the shell remains at a relatively low level.

Final report

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