Mycotoxin Content of Fungi-Contaminated Sorghum Sold in Selected Markets in Ibadan, Nigeria

Aim: This study sought to evaluate the mycoflora associated with sorghum retailed in some selected markets in Ibadan metropolis and assessing the risks associated with their consumption.

Methodology: Sorghum samples were obtained from Sango, Oja Oba, Ojoo, Bodija and Orita markets in Ibadan, Nigeria. Associated fungi were isolated by direct plating of the sample on Potato Dextrose Agar while they were identified by morphological and microscopic methods. Proximate and aflatoxin content of the samples were determined using standard methods.

Results: The presence of Aspergillus flavus, A. niger, Mucor sp, Penicillium sp, Trichothecium sp, Curvularia sp., Fusarium monoliforme, Alternaria alternata, and P. roqueforti were observed in the samples. Among these, A. flavus and A. niger were the most predominant with occurrence of 34.92% and 23.81% respectively. The aflatoxin analysis showed a concentration ranging from 46 – 102ppb and was highest in samples collected from Ojoo market. Aflatoxin contamination was not detected in sixty percent of the samples collected while samples from Oja Oba and Bodija markets had the most samples contaminated by aflatoxins.

Conclusion: The presence of fungi and aflatoxin was confirmed in some of the samples collected from major markets in Ibadan. This suggests the need for continuous surveillance and the recommendation of measures that will prevent fungal infestation.