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Characterization of Aspergillus section Flavi isolated from organic Brazil nuts using a polyphasic approach
T A Reis1, A C Baquião1, D D Atayde1
1Laboratório de Micotoxinas, Departamento de Microbiologia, Instituto de Ciências Biomédicas, Universidade de São Paulo, Av. Prof. Lineu Prestes, 1374, CEP 05508-000 São Paulo, São Paulo, Brazil.
Food Microbiology
|June 16, 2014
Summary
Organic Brazil nuts can be contaminated by toxigenic fungi like Aspergillus flavus and Aspergillus nomius. This study identified these fungi and their mycotoxin production, crucial for ensuring food safety in high-demand markets.
Area of Science:
- Mycology
- Food Science
- Agricultural Science
Background:
- Brazil nuts (Bertholletia excelsa) are a significant Amazonian non-timber forest product with global demand, particularly for organic varieties.
- Growing consumer concern for food safety necessitates precise identification of toxigenic fungi in organic Brazil nuts.
- Brazil nuts are susceptible to fungal colonization, making fungal identification critical for risk management.
Purpose of the Study:
- To characterize Aspergillus section Flavi strains isolated from organic Brazil nuts using a polyphasic approach.
- To assess the mycotoxigenic potential of identified Aspergillus species.
Main Methods:
- Isolation and identification of Aspergillus section Flavi strains from organic Brazil nuts.
- Polyphasic characterization of fungal isolates.
- Analysis of mycotoxin production (aflatoxin B, aflatoxin G, cyclopiazonic acid).
Main Results:
- Aspergillus flavus was the predominant species (74.4%), followed by Aspergillus nomius (12.7%).
- 80.0% of A. flavus strains were toxigenic, producing aflatoxin B (AFB), cyclopiazonic acid (CPA), or both.
- All A. nomius strains produced aflatoxin B (AFB) and aflatoxin G (AFG), but not CPA.
Conclusions:
- Understanding the fungal population, particularly toxigenic Aspergillus species, in organic Brazil nuts is essential for developing effective control strategies.
- Factors like origin, processing, and storage influence the predominant fungal species found on Brazil nuts.
- Precise identification of toxigenic fungi is vital for ensuring the safety of organic Brazil nuts in international markets.
