Investigation of Aflatoxin B1 Levels in Red-scaled Pepper by ELISA
Abstract
Objective: Mycotoxins have carcinogenic, mutagenic and teratogenic effects on most animals and humans. Among all mycotoxins, aflatoxin B1 (AFB1) has the most toxic effects.
Methods: In this study, the aflatoxin B1 levels in red-scaled pepper samples have been determined by ELISA method.
Results: The results revealed that 69 out of 82 samples (84.14%) were found to be contaminated with aflatoxin B1 in the range of 5.1-20.94 μg kg-1 (ppb).
Conclusion: Aflatoxins are dangerous contaminants of red pepper and have to be considered as a major concern for public health.
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