Wild rice as fermentation substrate for mycotoxin production

Area of Science:

• Food science
• Mycology
• Agricultural science

Background:

• Cereal grains are common substrates for mycotoxin production.
• Wild rice has not been previously studied for its mycotoxin-producing potential.

Purpose of the Study:

• To determine if wild rice is a suitable substrate for the fermentative production of mycotoxins.
• To assess the yield of specific mycotoxins under varying conditions.

Main Methods:

• Five known mycotoxin-producing mold cultures were inoculated onto wild rice.
• Fermentation was conducted under varied moisture and temperature conditions.
• Mycotoxin yields were quantified, and naturally molded wild rice was analyzed.

Main Results:

• Good yields of ochratoxin-A and moderate amounts of patulin were achieved.
• Small quantities of penicillic acid, vomitoxin, and zearalenone were produced.
• Naturally molded wild rice contained 0.8 µg/g patulin, with Aspergillus clavatus identified as the predominant mold.

Conclusions:

• Wild rice supports the fermentative production of certain mycotoxins, notably ochratoxin-A and patulin.
• Aspergillus clavatus isolated from wild rice can produce patulin, similar to known strains.
• Further research into wild rice as a mycotoxin substrate is warranted.