Reducing Aflatoxin

Unsafe food is a major cause of illness in poor countries. Globally, foodborne disease causes an estimated 2 million deaths and takes a health toll comparable to malaria or tuberculosis. 98% of this burden is borne by people in poor and middle income countries.

Aflatoxin, a common fungal toxin, is known to cause cancer and liver damage, and is suspected of contributing to stunted growth in children. Aflatoxin is common in peanuts and maize, both staple foods throughout much of Africa.

Traditionally, farmers dry their crops on the bare earth. This allows contact with the toxin-producing fungi, which reside in the soil. Drying instead on a plastic sheet or tarp can prevent contamination.  

Increasingly, buyers of peanuts for export or for in-country markets are demanding or putting a market premium on afflotoxin peanuts. By user proper techniques for the handling and storing of peanuts, farmers can fetch higher prices for their product. 

Several approaches were tested to reduce aflotoxin contamination in peanuts.