Growth and aflatoxin production of aspergillus flavus on some spices marketed in Turkey

Growth and aflatoxin production by Aspergillus flavus (MAM-268 C17, TNS=98) on autoclaved coconut, black pepper, crushed red pepper, red pepper powder were studied. Coconut were found to be a better substrate for fungal growth, as well as aflatoxin production. Red pepper powder could be considered as a poor substrate for fungal growth. The amount of aflatoxin found in crushed red pepper under laboratory conditions is much less compared with coconut, black pepper and red pepper powder.