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Fumonisin levels in Uruguayan corn products
M S Piñeiro1, G E Silva, P M Scott
1Laboratorio Tecnológico del Uruguay, Sector Micotoxinas, Montevideo, Uruguay.
Journal of AOAC International
|July 1, 1997
Summary
Fumonisins, toxic compounds, were found in Uruguayan corn products, particularly in animal feed and polenta. These findings highlight potential risks due to high consumption of contaminated corn-based foods in Uruguay.
Area of Science:
- Food Science
- Mycotoxicology
- Analytical Chemistry
Background:
- Fumonisins are mycotoxins produced by Fusarium species.
- Corn and its derivatives are common food staples globally and in Uruguay.
- Previous data on fumonisin contamination in Uruguayan corn products is limited.
Purpose of the Study:
- To assess the occurrence and levels of fumonisins FB1 and FB2 in various Uruguayan corn products.
- To identify which corn products pose the highest risk for fumonisin exposure in the Uruguayan population.
Main Methods:
- A survey of 64 corn product samples from Uruguayan retail stores over 15 months.
- Analysis using liquid chromatography with fluorescence detection after solid-phase extraction and derivatization.
- Quantification of fumonisins FB1 and FB2.
Main Results:
- Fumonisin FB1 was detected in all samples, with levels ranging from 50 ng/g to 6342 ng/g.
- Highest FB1 contamination was found in animal feed, unprocessed corn kernels, and milled products like polenta.
- Fumonisin FB2 was detected at trace levels in only one feed sample.
Conclusions:
- Fumonisins naturally occur in Uruguayan corn products.
- Corn-based animal feed and polenta represent significant sources of fumonisin exposure in Uruguay.
- The high consumption of these products warrants concern regarding potential health risks.