Deoxynivalenol screening in wheat-derived products in Gran Asuncion, Paraguay

Fusarium graminearum is one of the most important pathogens affecting wheat production in Paraguay. This fungus decreases yield and grain quality; the most important consequence is the production of mycotoxins from the trichothecene group, secondary metabolites toxic to humans and other animals. The toxin reported in Paraguay is deoxynivalenol, which has effects on the gastrointestinal tract and immune system. To determine the presence of deoxynivalenol in flour and baked goods, samples of wholemeal flour and white flour, white and wholemeal bread, and bran crackers were carried out in the Gran Asuncion Area. The presence of deoxynivalenol was determined by monoclonal antibodies through the use of quantitative test strips. The results were variable and below those established by international standards.