Evaluación de la presencia de micotoxinas en muestras de maíz amarillo duro (Zea ays) en diferentes condiciones de almacenamiento

Abstract

This research aimed to evaluate the mycotoxins presence in samples of yellow dent corn (Zea mays) under different storage conditions. The Research methodology involved 12 experimental units distributed among three treatments with four replications each and submitted to microbiological analyses to determine the presence of mycotoxins in the experimental units using the ELISA method. Also, physicochemical analysis assessed moisture content, dry matter using a thermobalance, and protein content through the Kjeldahl method. Statistical analysis was performed using Info stat 2020 software, employing a completely randomized design and Tukey's test (P ≤ 0.05) for microbiological and physicochemical analyses. The findings revealed highly significant differences in Aflatoxin (ranging from 2.25 parts per billion to 7.53 parts per billion) and Fumonisins (from 0.80 parts per million to 5.88 parts per million). However, concentrations of Zearalenone and Ochratoxins were determined to be <5 parts per billion and <2 parts per billion, showing no significant differences. Notably, significant differences were observed in moisture content, dry matter, and protein because of different treatments. Finally, the treatment involving 75% relative humidity and a storage temperature of 15°C exhibited the best bromatological and microbiological characteristics because of its lower concentrations of mycotoxins in the samples. Therefore, it is essential to raise awareness among the general population regarding the importance of proper corn storage conditions to prevent the proliferation of mycotoxins.