Comparison of the efficiency between two sampling plans for aflatoxins analysis in maize

Area of Science:

• Agricultural Science
• Food Safety
• Analytical Chemistry

Background:

• Aflatoxins are toxic secondary metabolites produced by certain fungi, posing a significant threat to food safety and human health.
• Accurate quantification of aflatoxins in agricultural commodities like maize is crucial for regulatory compliance and risk management.
• Traditional manual sampling methods can introduce substantial variability into the overall measurement process.

Purpose of the Study:

• To evaluate and compare the performance and variance of two distinct sampling plans for aflatoxin quantification in maize.
• To determine the efficiency of an automatic sampling plan versus a manual sampling plan in accurately reflecting aflatoxin contamination levels.

Main Methods:

• Eight maize lots were sampled using two methods: manual (sampling spear for kernels) and automatic (continuous flow for milled maize).
• Total variance, along with sampling, preparation, and analysis variance, were quantified and compared using multifactor analysis of variance.
• Operational characteristic (OC) curves were constructed using variance data and theoretical distribution models to assess acceptance/rejection probabilities.

Main Results:

• The automatic sampling plan exhibited significantly lower total variance and sampling variance compared to the manual plan.
• Multifactor analysis of variance confirmed the superiority of the automatic plan in reducing measurement variability.
• Operational characteristic curves demonstrated that the automatic plan effectively reduced both consumer and producer risks.

Conclusions:

• The automatic sampling plan is more efficient and reliable for aflatoxin quantification in maize than the manual plan.
• This automated approach provides a more accurate representation of actual aflatoxin contamination, enhancing food safety protocols.
• Implementing automatic sampling can mitigate risks associated with aflatoxin exposure in the maize supply chain.