Physical Prevention of Aflatoxin Contamination of Maize in Thailand

Aflatoxin Prevention by Solar Drying

Abstract

Aflatoxin is an extremely potent carcinogen which is produced by Aspergillus flaves and it contaminates grain in regions which have both high temperature and high humidity. In order to find a suitable aflatoxin prevention method for the weather and economical conditions in Theiland, we made simple low cost solar dryers and tested them, changing the conditions of setting, etc., and investigated the effects of drying on the prevention of aflatoxin. As a result, it became clear that if we set up the solar dryer on a concrete paved barnyard, we can dry a stationary layer of maize (initial M. C. 26% w. b.) in a total of 35hrs' duration of sunshine, and can obtain a condition which will not produce aflatoxin even in the rainy season. It is more difficult for the aflatoxin producing fungi to grow on the ear maize than on the damaged maize kernels which are shelled when the moisture content is high.