PJB-2024-54
ASSESSMENT OF AFLATOXIN CONTAMINATION IN CHILLI SAMPLES FROM RAWALPINDI AND ISLAMABAD – A CASE STUDY
Saboor Muarij Bunny
Abstract
Aflatoxins, secondary fungal metabolites produced by certain fungi under favourable conditions, can be found on almost all the crops including chillis. In Pakistan, where chili is one of the commonly used spices in Pakistan found in every household. There is a lack of data on aflatoxin levels in chillis being sold in Rawalpindi and Islamabad. Hence to evaluate the aflatoxin content in the chillis being sold to the residents of the two big cities of Pakistan, a case study was conducted. Prolonged consumption of aflatoxin contents may lead to serious health implications like, cancer, liver malfunctions, stunted growth in children etc. Approximately, 30% of the chilli samples randomly collected from the cities showed aflatoxin content above safe limits as recommended by European Union (EU). The presence of aflatoxins in chillis may have various causes, but it is crucial to address and control these levels by rigorous screening to safeguard public health.
Keywords: aflatoxins, chillis, Rawalpindi, Islamabad, consumption, health, safe limits
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