Aflatoxicol and Aflatoxins B1 and M1 in the Tissues of Pigs Receiving Aflatoxin

Aflatoxicol (AFL) and aflatoxins B1 and M1 were found in tissues (kidney, liver, and muscle) of feeder pigs given an estimated LD50 oral dose of B1 (1.0 mg/kg body weight) provided as a rice culture of Aspergillus flavus and of market-weight pigs fed a naturally contaminated feed, containing aflatoxin Bi at a level of 400 ng/g from corn, for 14 days. The residues in all tissues decreased with time after treatment in both groups, with no detectable residues (approximate detection limits, ng/g, B1 0.03, M1 0.05, AFL 0.01) in pig tissues from the feeding experiment 24 h after withdrawal of aflatoxin-contaminated feed. B1 and M1, when found in the feeding experiment, were at about the same levels in all tissues except the kidney, in which M1 was the dominant aflatoxin. The level of AFL, when detected, was about 10% of the B1 level.

Thin Layer Chromatographic Method for Determination of Deoxynivalenol in Wheat: Collaborative Study

A collaborative study of a rapid method for the determination of deoxynivalenol (DON) in winter wheat was successfully completed. The method involves sample extraction with acetonitrile-water (84 + 16), cleanup using a disposable column of charcoal, Celite, and alumina, and detection by thin layer chromatography after spraying with an aluminum chloride solution. Each of the 15 collaborators analyzed 12 samples, 2 of which were naturally contaminated, and 10 to which DON was added, in duplicate, at levels of 0,50,100,300, and 1000 ng/ g. Average recoveries of DON ranged from 78 to 96% with repeatabilities of 30-64% and reproducibilities of 33-87%. The results of the study show that false positives were not a problem and that all of the analysts could detect DON at the 300 ng/g level or higher. The method has been adopted official first action.

Determination of Aflatoxicol and Aflatoxins B1 and M1 in Eggs

Procedures from 2 methods, one for aflatoxins B1 and M1 in eggs and one for aflatoxicol in milk, blood, and liver, have been combined to determine the 3 toxins in eggs. The sample is blended with sodium chloride-saturated water and this mixture is then blended with acetone. After separation from the solid residue, the aqueous acetone extract is defatted with petroleum ether. The toxins are next partitioned into chloroform and separated from interferences on a silica gel column. Aflatoxicol is determined by fluorescence measurement after separation on a C18 reverse phase liquid chromatographic column, and aflatoxins B1 and M1 are determined by fluorescence densitometry after separation on a silica gel thin layer chromatographic plate. In a recovery study with eggs, mean recoveries of aflatoxicol added at levels of 0.1, 0.05, and 0.025 ng/g were 87, 77, and 78%, respectively. Mean recoveries of aflatoxins B1 and M1 added at a level of 0.1 ng/g were 75 and 87%, respectively, and at an added level of 0.05 ng/g were 86 and 75%. The within-laboratory precision (repeatability) ranged from 2 to 13%.

Thin Layer Chromatographic Determination of Deoxynivalenol in Wheat and Corn

A thin layer chromatographic (TLC) method for determining deoxynivalenol (DON) in corn and wheat was developed. DON is extracted from the grain with acetonitrile–water (84 + 16) and filtered through a column of mixed alumina–charcoal–Celite (0.5 g + 0.7 g + 0.3 g). The solvent is evaporated on a steam bath. Ethyl acetate is added to the residue and heated to dissolve DON. After cooling, the residue is transferred to a vial with additional ethyl acetate and is dissolved in CHCl3–acetonitrile (4 + 1) for TLC on an AlCl3-impregnated silica gel plate with CHCI3–acetone–isopropanol (8 + 1 + 1). The plate is heated in a 120°C oven for 7 min; a blue fluorescent spot is produced under longwave ultraviolet light. DON is quantitated visually and/or fluorodensitometrically by comparison with reference standards. The minimum detectable amount of DON is ca 20 ng/spot. The limit of DON determination is ca 40 ng/g for wheat and 100 ng/g for corn. Recoveries of DON added to wheat and corn at 100, 500, and 1000 ng/ g levels were 85, 93, and 88% and 77, 80, and 80%, respectively.

Rapid Quantitation and Confirmation of Aflatoxins in Corn and Peanut Butter, Using a Disposable Silica Gel Column, Thin Layer Chromatography, and Gas Chromatography/Mass Spectrometry

Asimple, rapid, and solvent-efficient method for determining aflatoxins in corn and peanut butter is described. Aflatoxins B1, B2, G1, and G2 were extracted from SO g sample with 200 mL methanol-water (85 + 15). A portion of the extract was diluted with 10% NaCl solution to a final concentration of 50% methanol, and then defatted with hexane. The aflatoxins were partitioned into chloroform. The chloroform solution was evaporated, and the residue was placed on a 0.5 g disposable silica gel column. The column was washed with 3 mL each of hexane, ethyl ether, and methylene chloride. Aflatoxins were eluted with 6 mL chloroform-acetone (9 + 1). The solvent was removed by evaporation on a steam bath, and the aflatoxins were determined using thin layer chromatography (TLC) with silica gel plates and a chloroform-acetone (9 + 1) developing solvent. Overall average recovery of aflatoxin B] from corn was 82%, and the limit of determination was 2 ng/g. For mass spectrometric (MS) confirmation, aflatoxin B1, in the extract from 3 g sample (20 ng/g) was purified by TLC and applied by direct oncolumn injection at 40°C into a 6 m fused silica capillary gas chromatographic column. The column was connected directly to the ion source. After injection, the temperature was rapidly raised to 250¯C, and the purified extract was analyzed by negative ion chemical ionization MS.

Microbial Hazards Associated with Bean Sprouting

The behavior of microorganisms was studied in mung beans and alfalfa seeds before and after germination in modified, commercially available bean-sprouting kits. The microorganisms were enumerated by the aerobic plate count (APC) and by total yeast and mold count procedures. Salmonella species were artificially inoculated into selected samples and were enumerated by the most probable number (MPN) method. After germination of the beans or seeds into mature sprouts, significant increases were noted in APCs and in MPN values of Salmonella species. Although counts of yeasts and molds did not increase significantly after germination, these samples showed an increase in toxic Aspergillus flavus and potentially toxic Alternaria species. The presence of toxic Penicillium cyclopium molds also increased substantially in 5 samples of a single brand of mung beans. Analysis of selected sprout samples, however, showed no presence of aflatoxin.

Survey of Corn for Fusarium Toxins

Samples of the 1972 corn crop were collected in areas where the potential for Fusarium contamination of the corn was considered to be high or where known Fusarium damage had been reported. The 223 samples were collected in the spring following the crop year from terminal elevators or from stocks on hand at food processing establishments and were analyzed for zearalenone, anatoxins, and T-2 toxin by a modified multimycotoxin detection method. A rabbit skin bioassay was used to screen for possible T-2 toxin at levels below the chemical detection limits. Zearalenone was found in 17% of the samples (0.1-5.0 mg/kg); anatoxin was found in 5 samples (trace-10 μg/kg). A skin irritant was found in extracts from 93 of 173 samples by the rabbit skin bioassay. This effect may be due to the T-2 toxin or some other mycotoxin.

Thin Layer Chromatographic Determination of Aflatoxin B1 in Eggs

A method for determining aflatoxin in dairy products was modified for eggs, initially by additional cleanup steps. The modified method proved practical for use in survey analyses and was sufficiently sensitive to detect aflatoxin B1 at levels less than 1 ng/g in eggs from hens on experimentally contaminated feed and in spiked eggs; interfering compounds in eggs received from many different producing areas were eliminated. Although recovery was greater than 75% when the aflatoxin was extracted immediately after spiking, recovery was usually less than 30% when the aflatoxin was extracted after more than 24 hr. Adding sodium chloride, sodium sulfate, or urea to the extracting solvent remedied this defect, which is thought to be related to the binding of aflatoxin to egg protein.

Colorimetric Determination of Hydrocortisone in Milk

Hydrocortisone is extracted from milk with chloroform, and the extract is cleaned up on an activated Florisil column. The hydrocortisone is determined colorimetrically by reaction with phenylhydrazine hydrochloride. The method is sensitive to concentrations of 0.005 μg/ml, and milk volumes of 300 ml are easily processed. Recoveries of standards are about 70%, with good reproducibility.

Rapid Screening Method for Aflatoxins and Zearalenone in Corn

The methanol-water extraction system used in AOAC Method II for aflatoxins extracts both the aflatoxins and zearalenone from corn. Using this methanol-water extraction system as a base, a rapid screening procedure has been developed for these mycotoxins. The methanol-water extract is defatted with hexane and the pigments are precipitated with copper carbonate. The aflatoxins and zearalenone are subsequently extracted into chloroform and are then detected by half-plate TLC. An elapsed time of about 1 hr is required to analyze 1 sample. The sensitivity of the method is about 2 μg/kg for aflatoxin B1 and 100 μg/kg for zearalenone.

High Performance Liquid Chromatographic Determination of Aflatoxicol in Milk, Blood, and Liver

Samples of milk were extracted with chloroform, the extract was transferred to methanol, and residual interferences were removed by liquid-liquid partition against hexane and by silica gel column chromatography. Aflatoxicol (AFL) in the purified extract was resolved on a μBondapak C18 column, using water - methanol - acetonitrile - tetrahydrofuran (70 + 15 + 20 + 3) as the mobile phase, and measured with a fluorescence detector (excitation 325-385 nm, emission >408 nm). Recoveries of AFL added to samples of whole pasteurized milk at levels ranging from 0.025 to 0.10 ng/mL averaged 92% (range 78- 100%). The method for AFL has also been applied to the analysis of raw milk, whole beef blood, and beef liver, with recoveries of 70-88%.

Cyclopiazonic Acid Production by Cultures of Aspergillus and Penicillium Species Isolated from Dried Beans, Corn Meal, Macaroni, and Pecans

Ninety-five isolates of Aspergillus and Penicillium species from selected dried foods were examined for their ability to produce cyclopiazonic acid (CPA). The isolates were grown in sterile synthetic liquid medium at 28°C for 8 days in the dark. The medium and mold mycelia were then extracted with chloroform. CPA was semiquantitative^ determined by thin layer chromatography through visual comparison with standards. The cultures of A. flavus were also examined for their ability to produce aflatoxin. One A. tamarii and all 13 P. urticae isolates produced CPA, whereas only 19 of the 31 (61%) A. flavus isolates produced CPA, and 6 (19%) A. flavus produced aflatoxin. All 13 P. urticae isolates also produced patulin and griseofulvin. CPA-producing A. flavus was found in all food types but not in all samples. CPA-producing P. urticae was found only in dried beans and macaroni.

Thin Layer Chromatographic Determination of Aflatoxins in Dry Ginger Root and Ginger Oleoresin

A method for determining aflatoxins in dry ginger root and ginger oleoresin, using 1-dimensional thin layer chromatography (TLC) for the determinative step, has been developed. The key cleanup steps that permit this change from the 2-dimensional TLC previously required are partitioning of the extract with carbon tetrachloride and use of an improved eluting system for the silica gel adsorption column. Recoveries of aflatoxins B1, B2, G1, and G2 added to samples of ground ginger were 82, 101, 106, and 110%, respectively; recoveries of these aflatoxins added to ginger oleoresin were 75, 100, 93, and 125%, respectively. The method is applicable to fish meal and a number of mixed feeds.

Effect of Boiling, Frying, and Baking on Recovery of Aflatoxin from Naturally Contaminated Corn Grits or Cornmeal

Corn grits naturally contaminated with aflatoxins were used for making boiled grits, and portions of the boiled grits were used for making pan-fried grits; cornmeal naturally contaminated with aflatoxins was used for making corn muffins. Procedures and recipes were derived from cookbook and market package recommendations. From analyses of the products for aflatoxins before and after preparation of the table-ready products, it was determined that 72±9% (n = 15) of the aflatoxin found in the original grits could be recovered after the grits were boiled. The recovery of aflatoxin B1 after the grits were fried was either 66±10% (n = 6) or 47±8% (n = 9), depending on whether 3 cups of water or 4 cups of water per cup of grits, respectively, were used for preparing the boiled grits before frying. Similarly, it was determined that 87±4% (n = 9) of the aflatoxin B1 found in the original cornmeal could be recovered from the baked muffins. No detectable aflatoxin B2a was present in the extracts from any of the table-ready products.

Variability Associated with Testing Shelled Corn for Fumonisin

Variances associated with sampling, sample preparation, and analytical steps of a test procedure that measures fumonisin in shelled corn were estimated. The variance associated with each step of the test procedure increases with fumonisin concentration. Functional relationships between variance and fumonisin concentration were estimated by regression analysis. For each variance component, functional relationships were independent of fumonisin type (total, B1, B2, and B3 fumonisins). At 2 ppm, coefficients of variation associated with sampling (1.1 kg sample), sample preparation (Romer mill and 25 g subsample), and analysis are 16.6,9.1, and 9.7%, respectively. The coefficient of variation associated with the total fumonisin test procedure was 45% and is about the same order of magnitude as that for measuring aflatoxin in shelled corn with a similar test procedure.

Determination and Survey of Ochratoxin A in Wheat, Barley, and Coffee—1997

Ochratoxin A (OA) is a nephrotoxic and nephrocarcinogenic mycotoxin produced by Aspergillus and Penicillium species. It has been found mainly in cereal grains and coffee beans. The purpose of this study was to investigate the occurrence of OA in cereal grains and in coffee imported to the United States. A modified liquid chromatographic (LC) method for determining OA in green coffee was applied to wheat, barley, green coffee, and roasted coffee. The test sample was extracted with methanol–1% NaHCO3 (7 + 3), and the extract was filtered. The filtrate was diluted with phosphate-buffered saline (PBS), filtered, and passed through an immunoaffinity column. After the column was washed with PBS and then with water, OA was eluted with methanol. The eluate was evaporated to dryness, and the residue was dissolved in acetonitrile–water (1 +1). OA was separated on a reversed-phase C18 LC column with acetonitrile-water-acetic acid (55 + 45 + 1) as eluant and quantitated with a fluorescence detector. Recoveries of OA from the 4 commodities spiked over the range 1–4 ng/g were 71–96%. The limit of detection was about 0.03 ng/g. OA contamination at >0.03 ng/g was found in 56 of 383 wheat samples, 11 of 103 barley samples, 9 of 19 green coffee samples, and 9 of 13 roasted coffee samples. None of the coffee samples contained OA at >5 ng/g; only 4 samples of wheat and 1 sample of barley were contaminated above this level.

Solid-Phase Extraction Method for Patulin in Apple Juice and Unfiltered Apple Juice

Patulin, a mold metabolite, is commonly found in rotting apples. Some countries regulate patulin at levels ranging from 30 to 50 μg/L. Most analytical methods for patulin in apple juice include liquid—liquid partitions. A solid¯phase extraction method has been developed for apple juice and unfiltered apple juice in the United States. A portion of the test sample (5 mL) was passed through a macroporous copolymer cartridge and was washed with 1 mL 1 % sodium bicarbonate and then with 1 mL 1 % acetic acid. Patulin was eluted with 3 mL 2% acetonitrile in anhydrous ethyl ether and was determined by reversed-phase liquid chromatography with UV detection at 276 nm. Recoveries ranged from 93 to104% in test samples spiked at 20-100 μg/L.

Determination of Patulin in Apple Juice by Liquid Chromatography: Collaborative Study

An AOAC International-International Union of Pure and Applied Chemistry-International Fruit Juice Union (AOAC-IUPAC-IFJU) collaborative study was conducted to evaluate a liquid chromatographic (LC) procedure for determination of patulin in apple juice. Patulin is a mold metabolite found naturally in rotting apples. Patulin is extracted with ethyl acetate, treated with sodium carbonate solution, and determined by reversed-phase LC with UV detection at 254 or 276 nm. Water, water-tetrahydrofuran, or water-acetonitrile was used as mobile phase. Levels determined in spiked test samples were 20, 50,100, and 200 μg/L. A test sample naturally contaminated at 31 μg/L was also included. Twenty-two collaborators in 10 countries analyzed 12 test samples of apple juice. Recoveries averaged 96%, with a range of 91-108%. Repeatability relative standard deviations (RSDr) ranged from 10.9 to 53.8%. The reproducibility relative standard deviation (RSDR) ranged from 15.1 to 68.8%. The LC method for determination of patulin in apple juice has been adopted first action by AOAC INTERNATIONAL.

Liquid Chromatographic Method for Determination of Aflatoxins B1, B2, G1, and G2 in Corn and Peanut Products: Collaborative Study

A collaborative study of a liquid chromatographic method for the determination of aflatoxins B1, B2, G1, and G2 was conducted in laboratories located in the United States, Canada, South Africa, and Switzerland. Twenty-one artificially contaminated raw peanuts, peanut butter, and corn samples containing varying amounts of aflatoxins B1, B2, G1, and G2 were distributed to participating laboratories. The test portion was extracted with methanol-0.1N HCl ( 4 + 1 ) , filtered, defatted with hexane, and then partitioned with methylene chloride. The concentrated extract was passed through a silica gel column. Aflatoxins B1 and G1 were derivatized with trifluoroacetic acid, and the individual aflatoxins were determined by reverse-phase liquid chromatography with fluorescence detection. Statistical analysis of the data was performed to determine or confirm outliers, and to compute repeatability and reproducibility of the method. For corn, relative standard deviations for repeatability (RSDr) for anatoxin B1 ranged from 27.2 to 8.3% for contamination levels from 5 through 50 ng/g. For raw peanuts and peanut butter, RSDr values for aflatoxin Bi were 35.0 to 41.2% and 11.2 to 19.1 %, respectively, for contamination levels from 5 through 25 ng/g. RSDr values for aflatoxins B2, G1, and G2 were similar. Relative standard deviations for reproducibility (RSDR) for aflatoxin B1 ranged from 15.8 to 38.4%, 24.4 to 33.4%, and 43.9 to 54.0% for corn, peanut butter, and raw peanuts, respectively. The method has been adopted official first action for the determination of aflatoxins B1, B2, G1, and G2 in peanut butter and corn at concentrations ≥13 ng total aflatoxlns/g.

Evaluation by Enzyme-Linked Immunosorbent Assay of Cleanup for Thin-Layer Chromatography of Aflatoxin B 1in Corn, Peanuts, and Peanut Butter

A simple, rapid enzyme-linked immunoassay (ELISA) was used to evaluate the performance of each step (extraction, filtration, solvent partition, and silica gel column chromatography) of a solvent-efficient thin-layer chromatographic (TLC) method which is undergoing interlaboratory collaborative study for the determination of aflatoxin B1 in corn, raw peanuts, and peanut butter. The apparent average recoveries using the ELISA method were about 30 to 50% higher than those using the TLC method if only the amount of B, added to the samples was used in the calculations. After the cross-reaction of the antibody with other aflatoxins added to the samples was considered, the amounts recovered approached the levels of aflatoxins added in all 3 commodities tested. With no cleanup treatment, ELISA recoveries at aflatoxin B, levels above 7.5 ng/g were 84, 79, and 103% for corn, raw peanuts, and peanut butter, respectively. The coefficients of variation were between 5.2 and 25.2%. With each cleanup step in the TLC method, ELISA detected a progressive decrease in recovery from 150.5 to 105.3% (before correction for the presence of other aflatoxins) or from 93.5 to 65.4% (after correction for other aflatoxins) of B1 added to the samples. The ELISA data support the conclusion obtained from previous studies that cleanup treatments were not necessary in the ELISA. When large amounts of other aflatoxins are present, an understanding of the cross-reactivity of antibody with other aflatoxins in the ELISA is essential for final interpretation of the data.

Multifunctional Column Coupled with Liquid Chromatography for Determination of Aflatoxins B1, B2, G1, and G2 in Corn, Almonds, Brazil Nuts, Peanuts, and Pistachio Nuts: Collaborative Study

An AOAC/IUPAC collaborative study was conducted to evaluate the effectiveness of a multifunctional column for the determination of aflatoxins. The test portion is extracted with acetonitrile–water (9 + 1), the extract is filtered, and the filtrate is passed through the column. The aflatoxins in the eluate are determined by reversed-phase liquid chromatography after derivatization with trifluoroacetic acid. Naturally contaminated corn, almonds, Brazil nuts, peanuts, and pistachio nuts spiked with total aflatoxins at 5,10,20, and 30 ng/g were sent to 12 collaborators in the United States, Denmark, France, Japan, and Switzerland. Eleven collaborators completed the study. Average recoveries of total aflatoxins for each spike level for the various commodities (excluding Brazil nuts at 5 ng/g) were 93,97,95, and 95%, respectively; the repeatability relative standard deviation (RSDr) ranged from 6.0 to 23.2% and the reproducibility relative standard deviation (RSDR) ranged from 12.0 to 69.4%. The multifunctional column coupled with a liquid chromatographic method for determination of aflatoxins in corn, almonds, Brazil nuts, peanuts, and pistachio nuts has been adopted first action by AOAC INTERNATIONAL.

Immunoaffinity Column Coupled with Solution Fluorometry or Liquid Chromatography Postcolumn Derivatization for Determination of Aflatoxins in Corn, Peanuts, and Peanut Butter: Collaborative Study

An AOAC/IUPAC (International Union of Pure and Applied Chemistry) collaborative study was conducted to evaluate the effectiveness of an immunoaffinity column for the determination of af latoxin. The test portion Is extracted with methanol- water (7 + 3), filtered, diluted to ⦟30% methanol with water, and applied to the affinity column. The column Is washed with water and the concentrated aflatoxins are eluted with methanol. Total aflatoxins are determined by solution fluorometry with bromine (SFB), and Individual toxins are determined by reverse-phase liquid chromatography with postcolumn derlvatizatlon with Iodine (PCD). Corn naturally contaminated with aflatoxins, and peanuts, peanut butter, and corn containing added aflatoxins ( B1:B2:G1G2 = 7:1:3:1) were sent to 24 collaborators In the United States, France, Canada, and the Republic of South Africa. Twelve collaborators used the SFB method, 9 used the PCD method, and 3 used both SFB and PCD methods. Twenty collaborators completed the study (10 used the SFB method, 7 used the PCD method, and 3 used both SFB and PCD methods). Test portions were spiked at 10, 20, and 30 ng/g. For SFB analyses, recoveries of total aflatoxins were 123,105, and 107%, respectively; the relative standard deviation for repeatability (RSDr) ranged from 11.75 to 16.57%, and the relative standard deviation for reproducibility (RSDR) ranged from 10.97 to 33.09%. For PCD analyses, recoveries were 81, 81, and 83%, respectively; the RSDr ranged from 5.20 to 17.22%, and the RSDR ranged from 4.68 to 50.77%. The RSDr for aflatoxins B1, and G1 for spiked test portions ranged from 5.45 to 23.55%, and the RSDR ranged from 4.21 to 57.28%. The RSDr and RSDR for aflatoxins B2 and G2 were higher because of the small amounts added. Analyses by both SFB and PCD methods showed acceptable within-laboratory and betweenlaboratories precision. The method has been adopted official first action by AOAC as an AOAC-IUPAC method.

Survey of Deoxynivalenol in U.S. 1993 Wheat and Barley Crops by Enzyme-Linked Immunosorbent Assay

Wheat and barley from the 1993 crop year were analyzed for deoxynivalenol (DON). A total of 630 samples were collected by the Federal Grain Inspection Service in 25 states and analyzed using a commercially available, direct competitive, enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay. The limit of determination was about 0.5 μg/g. DON contamination in the 483 wheat samples averaged 2.0 μg/g and ranged from <0.5 to 18 μg/g. DON contamination in the 147 barley samples averaged 4.2 μg/g and ranged from <0.5 to 26 μg/g. About 40% of the wheat samples and 57% of the barley samples contained DON levels that were greater than the U.S. Food and Drug Administration 1982 advisory level of 2 μg/g for DON in wheat designated for milling (human consumption).

Rapid Solvent-Efficient Method for Liquid Chromatographic Determination of Ochratoxin A in Corn, Barley, and Kidney: Collaborative Study

A joint Interlaboratory study of a rapid, solvent-efficient liquid chromatographic method for determination of ochratoxin A (OTA) in barley, corn, and pork kidney tissue was conducted by AOAC, the International Union of Pure and Applied Chemistry, and the Nordic Committee on Food Analysis In 16 laboratories in Europe, Canada, and the United States. OTA was added to barley and corn at 10,20, and 50 ng/g and to kidney at 5,10, and 20 ng/g. Duplicate test portions were prepared at 20 ng/g for corn and barley and 10 ng/g for kidney. Mean recoveries of OTA ranged from 53 to 97%. Within-laboratory relative standard deviations were 7.9,20.1, and 15.7% for barley, corn, and kidney tissue, respectively. Between-laboratories relative standard deviations were 20.7-31.7% for all concentrations of OTA In barley and corn and 68.0,41.8, and 32.7% for OTA concentrations of 5,10, and 20 ng/g, respectively, In kidney. OTA Identity was confirmed by methyl ester derivatization followed by liquid chromatography. The method has been adopted first action by AOAC as quantitative at the levels tested for OTA determination In corn and barley.

Determination of Deoxynivalenol in White Flour, Whole Wheat Flour, and Bran by Solid-Phase Extraction/Liquid Chromatography: Interlaboratory Study

A liquid chromatographic (LC) method for determining deoxynivalenol (DON) in white flour, whole wheat flour, and bran at or above the U.S. Food and Drug Administration advisory level of 1 μg/g was evaluated by an interlaboratory study. Test samples of processed wheat (flour and bran) were extracted by blending with acetonitrile-water (84 + 16). Extracts were filtered and passed through a solid-phase extraction (SPE) column. The eluate was then chromatographed on a reversed-phase LC column with a water-methanol gradient. DON was measured at 220 nm. Naturally contaminated white flour, whole wheat flour, and bran samples and spiking solutions of DON to be added to the 3 commodities at 0.5,1.0, and 2.0 μg/g were sent to 4 collaborators in Kansas, Louisiana, Missouri, and Washington states. Three collaborators completed the study. Average recoveries of DON from the 3 commodities spiked at 0.5, 1.0, and 2.0 (μg/g were 94, 87, and 97%, respectively. Within-laboratory relative standard deviations for repeatability (RSDr) ranged from 3.1 to 21.7% and between-laboratory relative standard deviations for reproducibility (RSDR) ranged from 10.8 to 38.7%. On the basis of the results of this study, the SPE/LC method for DON in white flour, whole wheat flour, and bran was adopted as a peer-verified method by AOAC INTERNATIONAL

Application of Immunoaffinity Columns to Mycotoxin Analysis

Immunoaffinity columns (lACs) are widely used for cleanup and isolation of mycotoxins extracted from foods and biological fluids, particularly afla-toxins, ochratoxin A, and fumonisinsẳ The columns are prepared by binding antibodies specific for a given mycotoxin to a specially activated solid-phase support and packing the support suspended in aqueous buffer solution into a cartridge. The mycotoxin in the extract or fluid binds to the antibody, impurities are removed with water or aqueous solution, and then the mycotoxin is desorbed with a miscible solvent such as methanol. Further separation can be performed with lAC, followed by liquid chromatographic (LC) quantitation, either off-line or on-line in an automated system, or by fluorometryằ lACs have been used by laboratories that developed the antibodies but are also available commercially for aflatoxins, ochratoxin A, fumonis-ins, zearalenone, and deoxynivalenolễ Among commercial lACs, Aflatest P is used as the cleanup step in an LC method and in a solution fluorometry method for corn, peanuts, and peanut butter that was adopted as an AOAC INTERNATIONAL Official Method after evaluation by an international collaborative study. As part of a fluorometer-based test kit, aflatest P was further certified by the AOAC Research Institute to measure total aflatoxins in 10 grains and grain products. lACs can concentrate the analyte from a large amount of sample, allowing detection limits at low parts-per-trillion levels in some cases (e.g., for aflatoxin Mi and ochratoxin A in liquid food matrixes). Regeneration of lACs for reuse in aflatoxin, ochratoxin A, fumon-isin, and zearalenone analyses has been investigated.

Application of Gas Chromatography/Matrix Isolation/Fourier Transform Infrared Spectroscopy to the Identification of Pyrrolizidine Alkaloids from Comfrey Root (Symphytum officinale L.)

This paper demonstrates that pyrrolizidine alkaloids (PAs) extracted from comfrey root grown in Washington State (USA) can be identified by gas chromatography/matrix isolation/Fourier transform infrared (GC/MI/FTIR) spectroscopy. Infrared spectral bands observed in the fingerprint region were unique even for closely related structures. The identities of the 4 major components, intermedine, lycopsamine, 7-acetylintermedine, and 7-acetylly-copsamine, were confirmed by comparison with standards. Confirmation was also obtained by using the established techniques of electron ionization and positive ion chemical ionization gas chro-matography/mass spectrometry. The infrared spectra observed for the components of the root extract were consistent with known structures of specific PAs. The identities of the minor components, sym-phytine and its isomers symlandine and/or sym-viridine, in the same extract were not confirmed.

Enzyme-Linked Immunosorbent Assay of Total Aflatoxins B1, B2, and G1 in Corn: Follow-up Collaborative Study

A direct competitive enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay screening method for af latoxins at 20 ng/g in corn was studied by 15 collaborating laboratories. Test samples of corn were extracted by blending with methanol-water (8 + 2). The extracts were filtered and the filtrates were diluted with buffer to a final methanol concentration of <30%. Each diluted filtrate was applied to a test device containing a filter with immobilized polyclonal antibodies specific to aflatoxins B1, B2, and G1. Aflatoxin Bi-peroxidase conjugate was added, the test device was washed with water, and a mixture of hydrogen peroxide and tetramethylbenzidine was added. A test sample was judged to contain ≥20 ng af latoxins/g when, after exactly 1 min, no color was observed on the filter; if a blue or gray color developed, the test sample was judged to contain <20 ng aflatoxins/g. All laboratories correctly identified naturally contaminated corn test samples. Only one false positive was found for controls containing no aflatoxins. The correct responses for positive test samples spiked at levels of 10,20, and 30 ng aflatoxins/g (the ratio of B1:B2:G1 was 15:1:3) were 67,97, and 100%, respectively. This method was adopted first action by AOAC INTERNATIONAL as a change in method for 990.34 for screening for aflatoxins B1, B2, and G1 in corn at total aflatoxin concentrations of ≥20 ng/g.

Determination and Survey of Deoxynivalenol in White Flour, Whole Wheat Flour, and Bran

A liquid chromatographic (LC) method for determining deoxynivalenol (DON) in white flour, whole wheat flour, and bran was developed. A 25 g test portion was extracted with acetonitrile-water (84 + 16), and the extract was filtered and applied to a column containing a combination of charcoal, Celite, and other adsorbents. The eluate was then chromatographed on a silica-based, reversedphase LC column by using a gradient of water and methanol. DON was measured at 220 nm. Average recoveries of DON from white flour, whole wheat flour, and bran spiked at 1 fig/g were 88,86, and 85%, respectively. The limit of determination of the method was <0.5 μg/g. A total of 562 wheat-based products from the 1993 crop year were collected by 21 U.S. Food and Drug Administration District Offices and analyzed by this method in Kansas City, Seattle, and New Orleans District Laboratories. The numbers of samples with DON contamination ≥1 μg/g from 163 bran, 272 white flour, 90 whole wheat flour, and 37 miscellaneous test samples were 20,28,14, and 2, respectively. About 52,50,40, and 27% of the same test samples were contaminated with DON at levels ≥0.1 μg/g.

Comparison of Postcolumn Derivatization-Liquid Chromatography with Thin-Layer Chromatography for Determination of Aflatoxins in Naturally Contaminated Corn

Quantitation of aflatoxins by liquid chromatography with postcolumn iodine derlvatization (LC-PCD) and fluorescence detection was compared with quantitation by the AOAC CB method, 968.22. Thirty-seven naturally contaminated corn samples were ground and then divided. One portion was extracted, and the extract was cleaned up and analyzed by thin-layer chromatography according to the CB method. The second portion was extracted and cleaned up In a similar fashion, but quantitation was by the LC-PCD method. For aflatoxin B1, concentrations ranging from 0 to 150 ng/g, results obtained by the 2 methods were fitted to a linear equation with the LC-PCD results as the dependent variable. The correlation coefficient was 0.99, the Intercept was near 0, and the slope was near 1. For aflatoxin B2, the correlation coefficient was 0.97, and the Intercept was near 0. However, the slope of the equation relating LC-PCD concentration to TLC concentration was only 0.5. We believe that this lack of equivalence between the methods for determination of aflatoxin B2 is due to overestlmatlon by the TLC method because the low levels present are near the TLC detection limit for B2.

Analysis of IHchothecene Mycotoxins in Contaminated Grains by Gas Chromatography/Matrix Isolation/Fourier Transform Infrared Spectroscopy and Gas Chromatography/Mass Spectrometry

Gas chromatography/matrix isolation/Fourier transform infrared (GC/MI/FTIR) spectroscopy and GC/mass spectrometry (MS) were used to confirm the identities of trimethylsilyl (TMS) derivatives of trichothecene mycotoxins in naturally contaminated grains. Infrared spectral bands observed in the fingerprint region were unique for 10 trichothecene standards. Characteristic absorption bands were observed for the ester (near 1750 cm-1) and ketone (near 1700 cm-1) carbonyl stretching vibrations, the acetate CH3 symmetric bend (1370 cm-1), the epoxide ring (1262 cm-1), the trimethylsilyl CH3 in-plane deformation (1253 cm-1), the ester (O)C-O asymmetric stretching vibration (near 1244 cm-1), and several other bands including intense features due to the TMS function. Infrared bands observed under cryogenic matrix isolation conditions were compared with those found at room temperature in a potassium bromide matrix for 5 of these standards. Identities of deoxynivalenol (DON) from barley and mixed feed, nivalenol from wheat and barley, and DON and fusarenon-x from sweet corn were confirmed by comparison of their infrared spectral bands with those of standards. The identity of DON in the same test samples of sweet corn was confirmed further by GC/MS. GC/MS was also used to quantitate the levels of DON (67-455 ppm) in sweet corn test samples.

Immunoaffinity Column Coupled with Liquid Chromatography for Determination of Fumonisin B1 in Canned and Frozen Sweet Corn

A modified liquid chromatographic (LC) method for determining fumonisin B1 (FB1) in corn was applied to canned and frozen sweet corn. The corn is extracted with methanol–water (8 + 2), and the extract is filtered. The filtrate is diluted with water and passed through an immunoaffinity column. After the column is washed with water, FBi is eluted with methanol–water (8 + 2). The eluate is evaporated to dryness by using a vacuum concentrator, and the residue is dissolved in acetonitrile–water (1 +1). FB1 is derivatized with o-phthaldialdehyde. The derivative is separated on a reversed-phase C18 LC column using acetonitrile–water–acetic acid (50 + 50 + 1) and quantitated with a fluorescence detector. Recoveries of FB1 from canned and frozen corn spiked over the range of 50–200 ng/g were 76–88%. The limit of determination was about 25 ng/g, and the limit of detection was about 4 ng/g. The method was applied to 97 commercial canned and frozen sweet corn samples collected from different areas of the United States. Sixty samples contained no FB1. Low levels (trace–82 ng FB1/g corn) were found in 35 samples; 235 ng FB1/g was found in 1 canned corn sample, and 350 ng FB1/g was found in 1 frozen corn sample.

Enzyme-Linked Immunosorbent Assay of Aflatoxins Bi, B2, and Gi in Corn, Cottonseed, Peanuts, Peanut Butter, and Poultry Feed: Collaborative Study

A direct competitive enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA) screening method for aflatoxins at 20 ng/g was studied by 12 collaborators. Test samples of peanut butter were extracted by blending with methanol-water-hexane (55 + 45 + 100) and heating the test extracts on a steam bath; test samples of the other commodities were extracted by blending with methanol-water (80 + 20). All test extracts were filtered and the filtrates were diluted with buffer to a final methanol concentration of <30%. Each diluted filtrate was applied to a cup containing a filter with immobilized polyclonal antibodies specific to aflatoxins B1, B2, and G1. Aflatoxin B1-peroxidase conjugate was added, the cup was washed with water, and a mixture of hydrogen peroxide and tetramethylbenzidine was added. The test sample was judged to contain >20 ng aflatoxins/g when, after exactly 1 min, no color was observed on the filter; when a blue or gray color developed, the test sample was judged to contain <20 ng aflatoxins/g. All collaborators correctly identified naturally contaminated corn and raw peanut positive test samples. No false positives were found for controls containing <2 ng aflatoxins/g. The correct responses for positive test samples spiked at levels of 10, 20, and >30 ng aflatoxins/g (the ratio of B1, B2, and G1 was 10:1:3) were 52, 86, and 96%, respectively. The method, which is rapid and simple, has been adopted official first action for screening for aflatoxins at >20 ng/g in cottonseed and peanut butter and for aflatoxins at >30 ng/g in corn and raw peanuts. The procedure will require further study for poultry feed. Positive test samples may require reanalysis by an official, quantitative method.

Co-occurrence of Cyclopiazonic Acid and Aflatoxins in Corn and Peanuts

Fifty samples of peanuts and 45 samples of com, collected in Georgia during 1990, were examined for the co-occurrence of cyclopiazonic acid (CPA) and aflatoxins (AF). The corn was collected from fields in Georgia, before harvest, under the mycotoxin- monitoring program of the U.S. Department of Agriculture's Agricultural Research Service. The peanuts were designated for oil production or animal feed because of visible damage to the nutmeats. CPA was determined by reversed-phase liquid chromatography (RPLC) using a linear gradient. Solvent A was methanol-water (85 +15), and solvent B was 4 mM ZnS04 in methanol-water (85 +15). The gradient started at 0% B and reached 100% B at 10 min. AF were determined by RPLC with postcolumn iodination. Of the 45 corn samples analyzed, 51 % were contaminated with CPA (<25-2800 ng/g, av. 467 ng/g), and 87% were contaminated with AF (1-2300 ng/g, av. 252 ng/g). Of the 50 peanut samples, 90% contained CPA (<50- 2900 ng/g, av. 460 ng/g), and 100% contained AF (3- 22 000 ng/g, av. 1685 ng/g). The identity of CPA was confirmed in selected samples of corn and peanuts by mass spectrometry.

Solvent-Efficient Thin-Layer Chromatographic Method for the Determination of Aflatoxins B1, B2, G1, and G2 in Corn and Peanut Products: Collaborative Study

An interlaboratory study of a solvent-efficient thin-layer chromatographic (TLC) method for the determination of aflatoxins B1, B2, G1, and G2 was conducted in laboratories located in the United States, France, Tunisia, and Denmark. Eighteen artificially contaminated samples plus blanks of raw peanuts and peanut butter and corn containing varying amounts of aflatoxins B1, B2, G1, and G2 were distributed to participating laboratories. The method consists of elements of the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA), Contaminants Branch (CB) (AOAC Method 968.22) and FDA, Best Foods (BF) (AOAC Method 970.45) methods with reduced requirements for solvents. Participating laboratories used either visual or densitometric techniques during the final determinative step. Statistical analysis of the data was performed to determine or confirm outliers and to compute repeatability and reproducibility of the method using either visual or densitometric techniques for the determinative step. Reported results from laboratories using a densitometer showed that, for corn, the relative standard deviation for repeatability (RSDr) for aflatoxin Bi ranged from 56.6 to 41.7% for contamination levels ranging from 5 to 50 ng/g. For raw peanuts and peanut butter, the RSDr values for aflatoxin Bi ranged from 21.3 to 37.3% and 65.9 to 42.1%, respectively, for the contamination levels ranging from 5 to 25 ng/g. RSDr ranges for anatoxins B2, Gi, and G2 were similar. For reproducibility (R), the RSDr ranges for aflatoxin Bi were 41.7-56.6%, 56.6-84.8%, and 26.4-37.3% for corn, peanut butter, and raw peanuts, respectively. Average re-coveries for all aflatoxins at all levels were 95.3, 139.0, and 95.6% for corn, peanut butter, and raw peanuts, respectively. When analysts determined af latoxin concentrations in corn by visual comparison to standards, the RSDr values for aflatoxin Bi were 47.8-11.4% for contamination levels ranging from 5 to 50 ng/g. For raw peanuts and peanut butter, the RSDr values for aflatoxin Bi were 76.3-12.6% and 33.4-8.8%, respectively, for the contamination levels ranging from 5 to 25 ng/g. RSDr values for aflatoxins B2, G1, and G2 were similar. The RSDr values for aflatoxin Bi were 34.6-90.2%, 45.5-59.3%, and 31.8-78.3% for corn, peanut butter, and raw peanuts, respectively. Average recoveries for all anatoxins at all levels were 111.0,157.6, and 92.3% for corn, peanut butter, and raw peanuts, respectively. High recoveries were noted for anatoxins in peanut butter determined by either a densitometer or comparison to standards. Generally, increased precision was observed with the method at higher contamination levels. On the basis of the results obtained in this AOAC/IUPAC collaborative study, the solvent-efficient TLC method using densitometry for the quantitative step was adopted first action by AOAC for the determination of aflatoxins B1, B2, G1, and G2 in corn at levels within the range of 5-50 ng/g, 3-15 ng/g, 10-50 ng/g, and 3- 15 ng/g, respectively, by densitometry; for anatoxins B1 and B2 in raw peanuts at levels ranging from 5 to 25 ng/g and from 1.5 to 7.5 ng/g, respectively, by densitometry; and for aflatoxins B1 and G1 in corn at 10-50 and 50 ng/g, respectively, and aflatoxins B1, B2, and G1 in raw peanuts at 10-25 ng/g, 7.5 ng/g, and 10-25 ng/g, respectively. Because of high recovery values, additional study is recommended for peanut butter. The solvent-efficient TLC method for determination of aflatoxins B1, B2, G1, and G2 in corn and peanuts has been adopted first action by AOAC INTERNATIONAL.

Molar Absorptivities of Aflatoxins B1, B2, G1, and G2 in Acetonitrile, Methanol, and Toluene-Acetonitrile (9 + 1) (Modification of AOAC Official Method 971.22): Collaborative Study

Four laboratories participated in a mini-collaborative study of AOAC Official Method 971.22, Standards for Aflatoxins, Thin-Layer Chromatographic Method, to extend the method to 3 replacement solvents for benzene for calibration of standard afla- toxin solutions. Triplicate test sample vials, each containing 25 μg of the respective aflatoxin for each of the 4 aflatoxins and for each of the solvents, were prepared and sent to each collaborator. The collaborators dissolved the aflatoxin in each vial in 2 mL solvent, measured the UV spectrum, and reported the absorptivity maxima near 350 nm. The concentrations of the aflatoxins in the test samples were determined by dissolving identical test samples in benzene-acetonitrile (98 + 2) and following the procedure described in AOAC Official Method 971.22. These concentrations were, in turn, used to determine the molar absorptivities in the other 3 solvents (see Table 1). AOAC Official Method 971.22 has been modified to extend its applicability to 3 replacement solvents for benzene for calibration of standard aflatoxin solutions.

Management of Mycotoxins in Spices

Spices are very important for cuisines around the world as well as for health enhancement. The Egyptians, Chinese, and Indians have used spices in medicinal remedies and procedures starting in around 2000 BC. Through the centuries, spices have found use as food ingredients to modify the aroma and taste of the final products; however, some spices are suitable substrates for mold growth and mycotoxin development, which could be detrimental to human and animal health. This report covers regulatory control of mycotoxins in food and spices by means of monitoring and regulatory limits, sampling and analysis, management, and prevention of mycotoxins from plant growth (preharvest) through harvest and postharvest as well as decontamination for mycotoxins when necessary. There is no one single-best strategy that can solve mycotoxin contamination problems, but a well-designed and integrated plan of all these strategies could result in a substantial reduction of mycotoxins in spices to regulation safety levels.

Determination of Deoxynivalenol in Processed Foods

Deoxynivalenol (DON), commonly referred to as vomitoxin, belongs to a class of naturally occurring mycotoxins produced by Fusarium fungi. The presence of DON in foods is a human health concern. The frequency of occurrence of DON in wheat is high, although cleaning prior to milling can reduce DON concentration in final products, and food processing can partially degrade the toxin. This paper describes a method for the determination of DON in some major wheat food products, including bread, breakfast cereals, pasta, pretzels, and crackers. Test samples containing 5 polyethylene glycol were extracted with water. After blending and centrifuging, the supernatant was diluted with water and filtered through glass microfiber filter paper. The filtrate was then passed through an immunoaffinity column and the toxins eluted with methanol. The toxins were then subjected to RPLC separation and UV detection. The accuracy and repeatability characteristics of the method were determined. Recoveries of DON spiked at levels from 0.5 to 1.5 g/g in the five processed foods were >70. SD and RSD values ranged from 2.0 to 23.5 and from 2.0 to 23.2, respectively. HorRat values were <2 for all of the matrixes examined. The method was found to be acceptable for the matrixes examined. LC/MS/MS with multiple-reaction monitoring was used to confirm the identity of DON in naturally contaminated test samples.

Determination of Fumonisins B1 and B2 in Corn by LC/MS with Immunoaffinity Column Cleanup: Interlaboratory Study

An interlaboratory validation study was conducted to establish the method performance characteristics of an immunoaffinity column (IAC) cleanup procedure followed by LC/MS for the determination of fumonisins B1 (FB1) and B2 (FB2) and combined FB1 + FB2 in corn. The test portion is extracted with acetonitrilemethanolwater (25 + 25 + 50). The extract is filtered, diluted with phosphate-buffered saline solution, and applied to an IAC. FB1 and FB2 are removed with methanol, followed by water, then directly determined by RPLC with MS detection using selected-ion monitoring of two characteristic ions in each case. Naturally contaminated corn samples were milled to a fine powder and mixed to produce three samples with target levels of combined FB1 + FB2 ranging from 350 to 4000 g/kg. Of 15 initially participating laboratories, two failed to report results and another did not follow the prescribed method. Thus, valid results were obtained from 12 participants located in 11 countries. Statistical analysis of the results produced RSDr values of 4.611.9, 1.912.6, and 1.411.5 for FB1, FB2, and combined FB1 + FB2, respectively; the corresponding RSDR values were 19.823.8, 18.225.5, and 18.823.2. The three concentration levels of combined FB1 + FB2 were 534, 1194, and 1954 g/kg. HorRat values for r and R were all <2.0, indicating that the method is suitable as a regulatory method for the enforcement of European Union limits for fumonisins in corn.

Determination of Aflatoxins B1, B2, G1, and G2 in Olive Oil, Peanut Oil, and Sesame Oil

Edible oils are consumed directly, and used as ingredients in food, soaps, and skin products. However, oils such as olive oil, peanut oil, and sesame oil could be contaminated with aflatoxins, which are detrimental to human and animal health. A method using immunoaffinity column cleanup with RPLC separation and fluorescence detection (FLD) for determination of aflatoxins (AF) B1, B2, G1, and G2 in olive oil, peanut oil, and sesame oil was developed and validated. Test samples were extracted with methanolwater (55 + 45, v/v). After shaking and centrifuging, the lower layer was filtered, diluted with water, and filtered through glass microfiber filter paper. The filtrate was then passed through an immunoaffinity column, and the toxins were eluted with methanol. The toxins were then subjected to RPLC/FLD analysis after postcolumn UV photochemical derivatization. The accuracy and repeatability characteristics of the method were determined. Recoveries of AFB1 spiked at levels from 1.0 to 10.0 g/kg in olive oil, peanut oil, and sesame oil ranged from 82.9 to 98.6. RSDs ranged from 0.6 to 8.9. HorRat values were <0.2 for all of the matrixes tested. Recoveries of AF spiked at levels from 2.0 to 20.0 g/kg ranged from 87.7 to 102.2. RSDs ranged from 1.3 to 12.6. HorRat values were <0.4 for all of the matrixes tested. LC/MS/MS with multiple-reaction monitoring was used to confirm the identities of aflatoxins in a naturally contaminated peanut oil.

Determination of Aflatoxins in Botanical Roots by a Modification of AOAC Official MethodSM 991.31: Single-Laboratory Validation

AOAC Official MethodSM 991.31 for the determination of aflatoxins (AFs; sum of aflatoxins B1, B2, G1, and G2) in corn, raw peanuts, and peanut butter by using immunoaffinity column cleanup with LC has been modified and applied to the determination of AFs in botanical roots. The modifications were necessary to improve the performance of the method for matrixes beyond corn and peanuts. The extraction solvent was changed from a mixture of methanol and water to acetonitrile and water. The accuracy, repeatability, and reproducibility characteristics of this method were determined. Replicates of 10 test portions of each powdered root (black cohosh, echinacea, ginger, ginseng, kava kava, and valerian) at each spiking level (AFs at 0, 2, 4, 8, and 16 ng/g) were analyzed on 3 separate days. Test portions were extracted with acetonitrilewater (84 + 16, v/v), and the extracts were centrifuged, diluted with phosphate-buffered saline, filtered, and applied to an immunoaffinity column containing antibodies specific for AFs. After the column was washed with water, the toxins were eluted from the column with methanol and quantified by HPLC with fluorescence detection. All test materials except kava kava were found to contain AF at <0.1 ng/g. Kava kava was naturally contaminated with AFs at 0.5 ng/g. Average within-day and between-days recoveries of AFs from botanical roots ranged from 88 to 112 and from 86 to 118, respectively. Total RSD values for within-day and between-days repeatability ranged from 1.4 to 15.9. HorRat values were <0.4 for all of the matrixes examined. The modified AOAC Official Method 991.31 was found to be applicable to an analysis of the six botanical roots.

Chromatographic Method for the Determination of Aflatoxin M1 in Cheese, Yogurt, and Dairy Beverages

The aim of this work was to develop and validate a method to determine aflatoxin M1 (AFM1) in cheese, yogurt, and dairy beverages. The method consisted of aqueous methanol extraction, immunoaffinity column purification and isolation, RPLC separation, and fluorescence detection. The four types of cheese samples were classified according to moisture and fat content. The mean recoveries were 71% for cheese at spiked levels from 100 to 517 ng/kg, and 76% for yogurt and dairy beverages spiked at levels from 66 to 260 ng/kg. The mean RSDs were 5.9% for cheese, and 10% for yogurt and dairy beverages. The LOD was 3 ng/kg and the LOQ was 10 ng/kg for all test commodities. To test the applicability of the developed method, a small survey of the presence of AFM1 in cheese, yogurt, and dairy beverages purchased in Ribeirão Preto-SP, Brazil, was conducted. AFM1 was detected (>3 ng/kg) in all samples. Twenty cheese samples (83%) were contaminated with AFM1 in the range of 13–304 ng/kg. In yogurt and dairy beverages, the contamination was lower (13–22 ng/kg) in five samples (42%). The results indicated that the method is adequate for the determination of AFM1 in these four types of cheese, as well as in yogurt and dairy beverages.

Variation of Analytical Results for Peanuts in Energy Bars and Milk Chocolate

Peanuts contain proteins that can cause severe allergic reactions in some sensitized individuals. Studies were conducted to determine the percentage of recovery by an enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA) method in the analysis for peanuts in energy bars and milk chocolate and to determine the sampling, subsampling, and analytical variances associated with testing energy bars and milk chocolate for peanuts. Food products containing chocolate were selected because their composition makes sample preparation for subsampling difficult. Peanut-contaminated energy bars, noncontaminated energy bars, incurred milk chocolate containing known levels of peanuts, and peanut-free milk chocolate were used. A commercially available ELISA kit was used for analysis. The sampling, sample preparation, and analytical variances associated with each step of the test procedure to measure peanut protein were determined for energy bars. The sample preparation and analytical variances were determined for milk chocolate. Variances were found to be functions of peanut concentration. Sampling and subsampling variability associated with energy bars accounted for 96.6% of the total testing variability. Subsampling variability associated with powdered milk chocolate accounted for >60% of the total testing variability. The variability among peanut test results can be reduced by increasing sample size, subsample size, and number of analyses. For energy bars the effect of increasing sample size from 1 to 4 bars, subsample size from 5 to 20 g, and number of aliquots quantified from 1 to 2 on reducing the sampling, sample preparation, and analytical variance was demonstrated. For powdered milk chocolate, the effects of increasing subsample size from 5 to 20 g and number of aliquots quantified from 1 to 2 on reducing sample preparation and analytical variances were demonstrated. This study serves as a template for application to other foods, and for extrapolation to different sizes of samples and subsamples as well as numbers of analyses.

Immunochemical Analytical Methods for the Determination of Peanut Proteins in Foods

Peanut proteins can cause allergenic reactions that can result in respiratory and circulatory effects in the body sometimes leading to shock and death. The determination of peanut proteins in foods by analytical methods can reduce the risk of serious reactions in the highly sensitized individual by allowing for the detection of these proteins in a food at various stages of the manufacturing process. The method performance of 4 commercially available enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA) kits was evaluated for the detection of peanut proteins in milk chocolate, ice cream, cookies, and breakfast cereals: ELISA-TEK Peanut Protein Assay, now known as “Bio-Kit” for peanut proteins, from ELISA Technologies Inc.; Veratox for Peanut Allergens from Neogen Corp.; RIDASCREEN Peanut Kit from R-Biopharm GmbH; and ProLisa from Canadian Food Technology Ltd. The 4 test kits were evaluated for accuracy (recovery) and precision using known concentrations of peanut or peanut proteins in the 4 food matrixes. Two different techniques, incurred and spiked, were used to prepare samples with 4 known concentrations of peanut protein. Defatted peanut flour was added in the incurred samples, and water-soluble peanut proteins were added in the spiked samples. The incurred levels were 0.0, 10, 20, and 100 μg whole peanut per g peanut protein per g food; the spiked levels were 0.0, 5, 10, and 20 μg peanut protein per g food. Performance varied by test kit, protein concentration, and food matrix. The Veratox kit had the best accuracy or lowest percent difference between measured and incurred levels of 15.7% when averaged across all incurred levels and food matrixes. Recoveries associated with the Veratox kit varied from 93 to 115% for all food matrixes except cookies. Recoveries for all kits were about 50% for cookies. The analytical precision, as measured by the variance, increased with an increase in protein concentration. However, the coefficient of variation (CV) was stable across the 4 incurred protein levels and was 7.0% when averaged across the 4 food matrixes and analytical kits. The R-Biopharm test kit had the best precision or a CV of 4.2% when averaged across all incurred levels and food matrixes. Because measured protein values varied by test kit and food matrix, a method was developed to normalize or transform measured protein concentrations to an adjusted protein value that was equal to the known protein concentration. The normalization method adjusts measured protein values to equal the true protein value regardless of the type test kit or type food matrix.