Determination of Aflatoxin Levels in Groundnuts: A Comparative Study between Domestic and Imported Seed Supplies in Libya

Giuma Elaref Elhafi; Mahmoud F. Gaballa; Idress Hamad Attitalla; Salha Ali Albakush

doi:10.5281/zenodo.11126462

Giuma Elaref Elhafi Dept. of Microbiology, Veterinary Medical College, Al Zytona University, Tarhona,Libya
Mahmoud F. Gaballa Dept. of Microbiology, Faculty of Science, Omar Al-Mukhtar University AL-Bayda, Libya
Idress Hamad Attitalla Dept. of Microbiology, Faculty of Science,andDean of Medical Technology,Omar Al Mukhtar University, Al-Bayda, Libya
Salha Ali Albakush Agriculture Research Center, Tripoli, Libya

DOI: https://doi.org/10.5281/zenodo.11126462

Keywords: Groundnut, aflatoxin, moisture stress, Aspergillusflavus

Abstract

The production of high-quality seeds presents a significant challenge for small-scale farmers in Libya. These farmers often face difficulties with storing their own seeds, encountering issues such as storage fungi and aflatoxin contamination. Aflatoxins, known to cause various human and animal health problems, are prevalent contaminants in groundnut seeds during storage, primarily produced by Aspergillusflavus and Aspergillusparasiticus fungi. This study compares aflatoxin levels between locally sourced and imported groundnut seeds.

Samples were procured from the local market in Tripoli, Libya, and aflatoxins were extracted and identified using thin-layer chromatography (TLC) with Silica gel. The findings reveal higher aflatoxin levels in local samples compared to imported groundnut seeds. Various factors influence aflatoxin levels, and the detected levels surpass European Union standards. To address this, regulatory measures or awareness campaigns among local farmers are recommended to ensure quality and sustainability in groundnut cultivation in Libya.

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