[Study of frequency and levels of mycotoxin contamination of fruit juices]

Fruit juices and nectars are an integral part of the diet of the Russian population, especially children. Being a source of antioxidants, vitamins, minerals, trace elements and dietary fibers, at the same time fruit and berries are a good substrate for the development of mold fungi capable of producing secondary metabolites with toxic and even carcinogenic properties - mycotoxins, which pose a real danger to human health. The aim of the research was studying of the nature of mycotoxins' contamination of fruit juices based on apples and grapes sold in the Russian market.

The content of 31 mycotoxins in 49 samples of fruit juices marketed in Moscow and Moscow region was studied using high-performance liquid chromatography combined with tandem mass spectrometric detection.

Screening studies of fruit juices based on apples and grapes for mycotoxin content were carried out. The results obtained by multidetection method indicate the detection of at least one mycotoxin at relatively low levels in 39 samples; two or more mycotoxins - in 26 out of 49 tested samples. The spectrum of toxins found differed depending on the type of juice. Tenuazonic acid, mycophenolic acid, toxins T-2, HT-2 and alternariol were found more frequently. The detection of toxins (fumonisins, ochratoxin A, aflatoxin B1, sterigmatocystin, deoxynivalenol and patulin) at low levels of contamination, including in juice samples intended for children's nutrition, indicates the relatively low quality of fruit and berry raw materials used.

The results of the study indicate the need to revise the technical requirements for fruit and berry raw materials in juice production industry. This is primarily necessary to prevent the inclusion of moldy and spoilage-prone fruit and berries, as well as to strengthen simultaneously control over product quality and safety, especially during storage and transportation intended for juice manufacturing.