Prevalence and predisposing factors of aflatoxin contamination in groundnut paste sold in retail shops in Mpigi Town Council, Uganda

Abstract

Aflatoxins are the commonest mycotoxins produced by Aspergillus species especially AB1, AB2, AG1 and AG2. With a favorable tropical climate environment for fungal growth, aflatoxin contamination in foods and agricultural products poses a significant health and economic threats in developing countries like Uganda. This study aimed at assessing the prevalence and predisposing factors of aflatoxin contamination in groundnut paste sold in retail shops in Mpigi town council. A cross-sectional study design was used and involved collection of ground nut paste samples from Mpigi town council. Structured questionnaires were administered to the vendors to record sociodemographic characteristics of the respondents, storage conditions of the groundnuts, awareness of the respondents about aflatoxin and the general hygiene of the sample. Laboratory analysis was conducted using Thin Layer Chromatograph to detect the presence of aflatoxins. The data was statistically analyzed by chi-square test to assess association between contamination and variables such as groundnut source, storage duration or awareness levels among retailers. Findings revealed that 20% of the samples were positive for aflatoxin B and 10% for aflatoxin G, indicating potential exposure of the public to carcinogenic and immunosuppressive compounds. There was no significant association between contamination and variables such as groundnut source, storage duration or awareness levels among retailers. This suggests that other factors including moisture content, environmental conditions and post-harvest handling practices may be more influential. The study highlights the urgent need for improved awareness, regular monitoring and enforcement of food safety standards in local markets. It calls for targeted interventions to reduce aflatoxin contamination in groundnut-based products thereby enhancing consumer safety and public health outcomes.