Quantitative correlation of aflatoxin biomarker with dietary intake of aflatoxin in Tanzanian children

Area of Science:

• Food safety
• Toxicology
• Pediatric nutrition

Background:

• Aflatoxins are toxic metabolites produced by fungi commonly found on food crops.
• Maize is a staple food in many regions, including Tanzania, and is a frequent vehicle for aflatoxin contamination.
• Infants and young children are particularly vulnerable to the adverse health effects of mycotoxins.

Purpose of the Study:

• To investigate the association between dietary aflatoxin intake from maize-based weaning food and biomarkers of exposure in Tanzanian children.
• To assess the reliability of aflatoxin albumin adducts (AF-alb) as an indicator of aflatoxin exposure in this population.

Main Methods:

• A cohort of 148 Tanzanian children (12-22 months) was studied over 6 months.
• Aflatoxin intake was estimated from maize-based weaning food consumption.
• Aflatoxin albumin adducts (AF-alb) were measured as a biomarker of exposure.

Main Results:

• A significant positive correlation was observed between individual aflatoxin intake and AF-alb levels (r = 0.51, p < 0.01) during the storage season.
• An overall significant correlation (r = 0.43, p < 0.01) indicated that AF-alb levels reflect aflatoxin intake from maize.
• Measured AF-alb levels suggest significant exposure in weaning-age children.

Conclusions:

• AF-alb levels in Tanzanian children are a reliable indicator of aflatoxin exposure from maize-based weaning foods.
• The observed exposure levels pose a potential risk for aflatoxin-associated health problems in young children.
• Interventions to reduce aflatoxin contamination in weaning foods are crucial for child health protection.