Survey for Contamination of Aflatoxin in Uganda Maize

Aflatoxins are highly toxic and carcinogenic compounds produced by the fungi, Aspergillus flavus and Aspergilus parasticus during growth on crops such as maize. Because of high temperature and humidity as in Uganda, Fungus infection increased in maize therefore more aflatoxin produced. Aflatoxin contamination makes a serious problem of food safety issue. Also contaminated product lower their marketability and productivity, finally reduce incomes of household. To solve this problem, Uganda would like to develop fungus-resistant variety and post-harvesting technique. This study practiced survey the aflatoxin levels in Ugandan maize farm and food market before research as developing new methods for reducing Aflatoxin. We collected 55 samples through domestic and survey aflatoxin contamination. About 11% of samples were contaminated and is contents ranges 12.7 123.5 μg/Kg. In addition, 9% of samples exceed regulation limit. These results mean the management of aflatoxin must be proceed by developing new fungus-resistant variety, dry and storage technique.