Post-harvest practices for aflatoxin control: Evidence from Kenya

Area of Science:

• Agricultural Science
• Food Safety
• Mycotoxicology

Background:

• Aflatoxins are toxic fungal metabolites that contaminate staple crops like maize.
• Post-harvest losses and food safety concerns are significant in developing countries.
• Effective interventions are needed to reduce aflatoxin contamination in maize.

Purpose of the Study:

• To evaluate the impact of a comprehensive post-harvest technology package on aflatoxin contamination in maize.
• To identify which components of the technology package are most effective in reducing aflatoxin levels.

Main Methods:

• A randomized controlled trial was conducted in rural Kenya.
• Intervention included training, sun-drying plastic sheets, a mobile drying service, and hermetic storage bags.
• Aflatoxin contamination levels were measured in maize from treatment and control villages.

Main Results:

• The overall intervention reduced aflatoxin contamination by more than 50%.
• Training and the use of plastic drying sheets were the primary drivers of this reduction.
• Lower-cost technologies demonstrated significant efficacy in mitigating aflatoxin contamination.

Conclusions:

• Integrated post-harvest management strategies can effectively reduce aflatoxin contamination in maize.
• Cost-effective interventions, such as farmer training and improved drying methods, are crucial for food safety.
• Scaling up these technologies can improve food security and public health in affected regions.