Authors : F Oluwafemi and G. O. Adegoke
Abstract: Aflatoxin production in maize grains stored for 12 months were studied at temperature–moisture levels typical of rainforest tropical weather of Nigeria. Temperature, relative humidity and moisture content (m.c.) of the grains were assessed alongside with total aflatoxin produced. Average temperature readings range from 25.50C to 280C while relative humidity studies showed a variation from 75% to 86%. Aflatoxin B1 production in the grains ranged from a minimum of 2.5g?/kg to 40.0?g/kg, percentage incidence of moulds vary from 40-60% for Aspergillus flavus and 0-40% for A. niger and 20-100% for Fusarium graminearum. Statistical analysis using Pearson 2–tailed correlation at P=0.05 showed significant differences in aflatoxin B1 levels in samples stored in polyethylene bags, plastic containers and woven polypropylene bags. Simulated relative humidity studies revealed that at low relative humidities of 50, 60 and 70%, high moisture grains loose moisture while the reverse is the case at high relative humidities of 80 and 90%. Grains stored in sealed plastic containers irrespective of initial m.c., maintained their m.c. throughout storage period.
Oluwafemi, F and G. O. Adegoke , 2004. Correlation Between Seasonal Variation and Microbial Deterioration of Maize Grains Stored in Different Packages . Journal of Food Technology, 2: 293-298.