Occurrence of aflatoxins and fumonisins in Incaparina from Guatemala

Abstract

The occurrence of aflatoxins and fumonisins in Incaparina was investigated. Incaparina is a mixture of corn and cottonseed flour with added vitamins, minerals and a preservative. It has been marketed as a high-protein food supplement, particularly for children on protein-deficient diets. According to estimates, 80% of Guatemalan children in their first year are given Incaparina to provide an adequate diet. Eight samples of Incaparina manufactured in Guatemala were collected. Five were from three different geographical locations in the USA and three were from Guatemala. Seven were examined for fungal contamination and analysed for aflatoxins and fumonisins. Aspergillus flavus was the predominant fungus in all samples purchased in the USA and in one sample purchased from Guatemala, whereas Fusarium verticillioides was present in only two samples (one from the USA and one from Guatemala). All samples contained aflatoxins, ranging from 3 to 214 ng g-1 and <2 to 32ng g-1 for aflatoxin B1 and aflatoxin B2, respectively; and one sample contained aflatoxin G 1 (7 ng g-1). Total aflatoxins present ranged from 3 to 244 ng g-1. All samples contained fumonisins, ranging from 0.2 to 1.7 μg g-1, <0.1 to 0.6 μg g-1, and <0.1 to 0.2 μg g-1 for fumonisins B1, fumonisin B2, and fumonisin B3, respectively. Total fumonisins present ranged from 0.2 to 2.2 μg g-1. The identity of aflatoxin B1 was confirmed using both the chemical derivatization method and liquid chromatographic (LC)/mass spectrometric (MS) analysis. Appropriate regulatory action was recommended for the import of Incaparina and has been in effect since 22 December 1998.