Efficient Inhibition of Aspergillus flavus to Reduce Aflatoxin Contamination on Peanuts over Ag-Loaded Titanium...

Area of Science:

• Food Science
• Materials Science
• Microbiology

Background:

• Peanuts are vulnerable to aflatoxins produced by Aspergillus flavus.
• Controlling Aspergillus flavus is crucial for preventing aflatoxin contamination in peanuts.
• Developing green, efficient, and economical inhibition methods is essential.

Purpose of the Study:

• To investigate the efficacy of Ag-loaded titanium dioxide composites in inhibiting Aspergillus flavus growth on peanuts.
• To assess the impact of this method on aflatoxin reduction and peanut quality.
• To elucidate the mechanism behind Aspergillus flavus inhibition.

Main Methods:

• Treatment of peanuts with Ag-loaded titanium dioxide composites under visible light irradiation.
• Quantification of Aspergillus flavus inhibition rates.
• Measurement of aflatoxin B1, B2, and G2 concentrations.
• Evaluation of peanut quality parameters (acid value, peroxide value, fat, protein, polyphenols, resveratrol).

Main Results:

• Ag-loaded titanium dioxide composites achieved over 90% inhibition of Aspergillus flavus within 15 minutes under visible light.
• Aflatoxin B1, B2, and G2 levels were significantly reduced by 96.02%, 92.50%, and 89.81%, respectively.
• Peanut quality parameters remained largely unaffected, indicating no significant degradation of nutritional or sensory attributes.

Conclusions:

• Ag-loaded titanium dioxide composites present a green, efficient, and economical approach for controlling Aspergillus flavus and aflatoxin contamination in peanuts.
• This method demonstrates potential for application in food and agri-food preservation, ensuring food safety and quality.