Quality evaluation of Alpinia oxyphylla after Aspergillus flavus infection for storage conditions optimization
Xiangsheng Zhao1, Jianhe Wei1,2, Yakui Zhou1
1Hainan Branch Institute of Medicinal Plant Development, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences & Peking Union Medical College, Haikou, 571100, China.
Abstract:
In the storage of Alpinia oxyphylla, growth of mildew (especially toxic fungi, such as Aspergillus flavus) is a potential safety risk. Few reports have investigated how A. oxyphylla storage conditions impact mold growth or how mold growth impacts the bioactive components of A. oxyphylla. In this study, sterilized A. oxyphylla samples were contaminated by artificial inoculation of A. flavus spores. The main chemical components and aflatoxin levels in the infected A. oxyphylla samples were characterized. Central composite design-response surface methodology was used to study the effects of different temperature and humidity of storage conditions on the fungal growth in A. oxyphylla and accumulation of aflatoxins. The results showed that aflatoxins levels can be minimized by storing samples at temperatures below 25 °C and with humidity less than 85%. Additionally, we found that the yield and composition of volatile oil in A. oxyphylla exhibited small changes due to mold growth. However, polysaccharide content reduced remarkably. Temperatures below 25 °C and humidity below 85% were the best storage conditions to preventing A. oxyphylla from becoming moldy. Our results provide the theoretical basis for future studies the effects of storage conditions and mold growth on the quality and safety of traditional Chinese medicines (TCMs).
Insights
Storing Alpinia oxyphylla below 25°C and 85% humidity minimizes toxic mold growth and aflatoxin accumulation. This preserves volatile oils but reduces polysaccharides, ensuring safer traditional Chinese medicine.
Area of Science:
- Pharmacognosy
- Mycology
- Food Safety
Background:
- Mildew growth, particularly toxic fungi like Aspergillus flavus, poses a significant risk during Alpinia oxyphylla storage.
- Limited research exists on how storage conditions affect mold growth and its impact on A. oxyphylla's bioactive components.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate the effects of storage temperature and humidity on Aspergillus flavus growth in Alpinia oxyphylla.
- To characterize changes in chemical components, including aflatoxins, volatile oils, and polysaccharides, following mold contamination.
- To determine optimal storage conditions to prevent mold growth and ensure the quality and safety of A. oxyphylla.
Main Methods:
- Sterilized A. oxyphylla samples were artificially inoculated with Aspergillus flavus spores.
- Central composite design-response surface methodology was employed to analyze the impact of varying temperature and humidity levels.
- Chemical components and aflatoxin levels in contaminated samples were quantified.
Main Results:
- Aflatoxin accumulation was significantly reduced when A. oxyphylla was stored at temperatures below 25°C and humidity below 85%.
- Mold growth led to minor alterations in the yield and composition of volatile oils.
- Polysaccharide content in A. oxyphylla decreased notably due to fungal growth.
Conclusions:
- Optimal storage conditions for Alpinia oxyphylla to prevent mold contamination are temperatures below 25°C and humidity below 85%.
- These conditions help minimize aflatoxin levels and preserve volatile oil content, although polysaccharide content is affected.
- Findings provide a scientific basis for improving the storage and quality control of traditional Chinese medicines.
