A Low-Cost, Portable Device for Detecting and Sorting Aflatoxin-Contaminated Maize Kernels.

Area of Science:

• Food Science
• Agricultural Technology
• Analytical Chemistry

Background:

• Aflatoxin contamination in maize poses a significant global food safety risk, particularly in African countries where maize is a staple food.
• High levels of aflatoxins can lead to severe health issues, necessitating effective detection and mitigation strategies.

Purpose of the Study:

• To develop and evaluate a low-cost, portable, non-invasive device for detecting and sorting aflatoxin-contaminated maize kernels.
• To assess the efficacy of a fluorescence-based detection method combined with manual sorting in reducing aflatoxin levels in maize.

Main Methods:

• A prototype device utilizing a modified normalized difference fluorescence index (NDFI) was developed.
• The device integrates a fluorescence excitation light source, a tablet for image acquisition, and detection/visualization software.
• Two experiments were conducted using maize artificially contaminated with *Aspergillus flavus* at high (71.18 ppb) and mild (1.22 ppb) levels.

Main Results:

• The combined detection and sorting approach effectively reduced aflatoxin levels in maize kernels.
• Aflatoxin reduction rates of 99.3% and 40.7% were achieved with maize rejection rates of 1.02% and 1.34%, respectively.
• The device demonstrated potential for significant aflatoxin reduction in maize samples.

Conclusions:

• Low-cost, non-invasive fluorescence detection technology coupled with manual sorting can substantially decrease aflatoxin contamination in maize.
• This technology offers a practical solution for village farmers and consumers in developing countries to ensure safer food supplies.
• The developed device enables the identification and removal of contaminated kernels, mitigating risks associated with potentially lethal aflatoxin levels.