Quantification of Aflatoxin B1 Produced by Aspergillus flavus MTCC 2798 in Rice Straw under Solid-State Fermentation

Aflatoxin is a toxic metabolite produced by some species of Aspergillus in food grains when stored under warm and damp conditions. Aflatoxin B1 has been found to induce carcinogenic, mutagenic, teratogenic and immunosuppressive effects. Contamination of agricultural produce with this toxin poses serious threat to the food and feed industry. Consumption of moldy straw may lead to aflatoxicosis in cattle. The present study focuses on the potential of rice straw to support aflatoxin B1 production from Aspergillus flavus MTCC 2798 and quantification of the produced toxin during solid-state fermentation. The aflatoxin 131 production was detected by thin layer chromatography and its level was quantified by high- performance liquid chromatography. 1% (w/w) glycine supported maximum production of aflatoxin (46.62 mu g/ml). The highest level of aflatoxin B1 was synthesized at pH 4.5 and at 30 degrees C. Significant toxin production was recorded after 30 days of incubation under aerobic condition. It may be concluded that rice straw has the potential to support good production of aflatoxin when incubated under ambient conditions. Therefore, proper storage and regular inspection of its quality should be practised to ensure the safety of dairy animals.