Determination of Aflatoxin in the Imported Rice in Zahedan, South-East of Iran, 2011

Abstract

Background: Rice is common foodstuffs in Iran. Aflatoxin contamination of rice can be hazardous human health and causes economic problems. Objectives: Determination of Aflatoxin levels was investigated on the imported rice which is consumed as the main food in this area. Materials and Methods: Two hundred samples of imported rice consisting; yellow (100) and white (100) rice were selected randomly. These samples were assessed for Aspergillus infection and the Aflatoxins B, G was detected by high performance liquid chromatography (HPLC) method. Results: The results showed, 33% and 47% of yellow and white rice samples had contaminated 0.34 and 0.58 part per billion (ppb) with Aflatoxin B1 respectively. It was observed 13% and 21% following samples had also contaminated 0.06 and 0.08 ppb Aflatoxin B2 respectively. The levels of G1 and G2 Aflatoxins were impossible to identify in these samples. Conclusions: According to proposed standards, none of the imported rice sample had not contaminated more than the maximum allowable concentrations of Aflatoxin.