Phosphorus and selenium compounding mitigates Cr stress in peanut seedlings by enhancing growth homeostasis and antioxidant properties.

Peanut is an economically important crop, but it is susceptible to Cr contamination. In this study, we used peanut as experimental material to investigate the effects of exogenous P, Se interacting with Cr on the nutrient growth and antioxidant system of peanut seedlings by simulating Cr (0 µM, 50 µM, and 100 µM) stress environment. The results showed that exogenous P, Se supply could mitigate irreversible damage to peanut seedlings by altering the distribution of Cr in roots and aboveground, changing root conformation, and repairing damaged cells to promote growth. When the Cr concentration is 100 µM, it exhibits the highest toxicity. Compared to the control group P and Se (0 MM), the treatment with simultaneous addition of P + Se (0.5 + 6.0) resulted in a significant increase in root length and root tip number by 248.7% and 127.4%, respectively. Additionally, there was a 46.9% increase in chlorophyll content, a 190.2% increase in total surface area of the seedlings, and a respective increase of 149.1% and 180.3% in soluble protein content in the shoot and roots. In addition, by restricting the absorption of Cr and reducing the synthesis of superoxide dismutase SOD (Superoxide dismutase), CAT (Catalase), POD (Peroxidase), and MDA (Malonaldehyde), it effectively alleviates the oxidative stress on the antioxidant system. Therefore, the exogenous addition of P (0.5 MM) and Se (6.0 MM) prevented the optimal concentration of chromium toxicity to peanuts. Our research provides strong evidence that the exogenous combination of P and Se reduces the risk of peanut poisoning by Cr, while also exploring the optimal concentration of exogenous P and Se under laboratory conditions, providing a basis for further field experiments.

Glycaemic Response to a Nut-Enriched Diet in Asian Chinese Adults with Normal or High Glycaemia: The Tu Ora RCT.

Nut-based products are a good source of high-quality plant protein in addition to mono- and polyunsaturated fatty acids, and may aid low-glycaemic dietary strategies important for the prevention of type 2 diabetes (T2D). In particular, they may be advantageous in populations susceptible to dysglycaemia, such as Asian Chinese. The present study aimed to compare effects of a higher-protein nut bar (HP-NB, also higher in total fibre and unsaturated fats, comprising mixed almonds and peanuts) vs. an isoenergetic higher-carbohydrate cereal bar (HC-CB) within the diet of 101 Chinese adults with overweight and normo- or hyperglycaemia. Ectopic pancreas and liver fat were characterised using magnetic resonance imaging and spectroscopy (MRI/S) as a secondary outcome. Participants were randomized to receive HP-NB or HC-CB daily as a 1 MJ light meal or snack replacement, in addition to healthy eating advice. Anthropometry and clinical indicators of T2D risk were assessed fasted and during an oral glucose tolerance test (OGTT), pre- and post-intervention. No significant difference was observed between diet groups for body weight, body mass index, waist or hip circumference, blood pressure, glucoregulatory markers, lipid profile or inflammatory markers over 12 weeks (all, p > 0.05). No difference was observed between glycaemic subgroups or those with normal versus high ectopic organ fat. Although HP-NB can attenuate postprandial glycaemia following a meal, no effects were observed for either fasting or glucose-mediated outcomes following longer-term inclusion in the habitual diet of Chinese adults with overweight, including at-risk subgroups.

Effect of a Higher-Protein Nut versus Higher-Carbohydrate Cereal Enriched Diet on the Gut Microbiomes of Chinese Participants with Overweight and Normoglycaemia or Prediabetes in the Tu Ora Study.

Global increases in metabolic disorders such as type 2 diabetes (T2D), especially within Asian populations, highlight the need for novel approaches to dietary intervention. The Tu Ora study previously evaluated the effects on metabolic health of including a nut product into the diet of a New Zealand cohort of Chinese participants with overweight and normoglycaemia or prediabetes through a 12-week randomised, parallel-group clinical trial. In this current study, we compared the impact of this higher-protein nut bar (HP-NB) versus a higher-carbohydrate cereal bar (HC-CB) on the faecal microbiome by employing both 16S rRNA gene amplicon and shotgun metagenomic sequencing of pre- and post-intervention pairs from 84 participants. Despite the higher fibre, protein, and unsaturated fat content of nuts, there was little difference between dietary groups in gut microbiome composition or functional potential, with the bacterial phylum Firmicutes dominating irrespective of diet. The lack of observed change suggests the dietary impact of the bars may have been insufficient to affect the gut microbiome. Manipulating the interplay between the diet, microbiome, and metabolic health may require a more substantial and/or prolonged dietary perturbation to generate an impactful modification of the gut ecosystem and its functional potential to aid in T2D risk reduction.

Effect of Peanut Butter Intake on Sleep Health in Firefighters: A Randomized Controlled Trial.

Sleep is often impaired in firefighters due to the psychologically and physiologically intense nature of their work and working shift schedules. Peanut butter is affordable and a substantial source of monounsaturated fatty acids, which may aid sleep health. Thus, this study sought to determine if a daily serving of peanut butter consumed before bedtime for seven weeks altered sleep quality and quantity among full-time firefighters. Forty firefighters (peanut butter group = 20; control group = 20) participated in this eight-week randomized controlled trial. All participants completed a subjective questionnaire on mood, focus, and alertness twice daily and wore an Actigraph wristwatch to measure sleep variables, including latency, efficiency, time in bed, time asleep, wake after sleep onset, number of awakenings, and time spent awake. After a baseline week, the peanut butter group consumed two tablespoons of peanut butter two hours prior to bedtime for seven weeks. Compared to the control group, the peanut butter group did not demonstrate significant changes (p > 0.05) in sleep measures or subjective feelings of mood, focus, or alertness after consuming peanut butter for seven weeks. Therefore, peanut butter as a source of peanuts did not alter sleep quality or quantity in this group of firefighters.

Genomic-wide analysis of Salmonella enterica strains isolated from peanuts in Brazil.

Peanut-based products have been associated with Salmonella foodborne outbreaks and/or recalls worldwide. The ability of Salmonella to persist for a long time in a low moisture environment can contribute to this kind of contamination. The objective of this study was to analyse the genome of five S. enterica enterica strains isolated from the peanut supply chain in Brazil, as well as to identify genetic determinants for survival under desiccation and validate these findings by phenotypic test of desiccation stress. The strains were in silico serotyped using the platform SeqSero2 as Miami (M2851), Javiana (M2973), Oranienburg (M2976), Muenster (M624), and Glostrup/Chomedey (M7864); with phylogenomic analysis support. Based on Multilocus Sequence Typing (MLST) the strains were assigned to STs 140, 1674, 321, 174, and 2519. In addition, eight pathogenicity islands were found in all the genomes using the SPIFinder 2.0 (SPI-1, SPI-2, SPI-3, SPI-5, SPI-9, SPI-13, SPI-14). The absence of a SPI-4 may indicate a loss of this island in the surveyed genomes. For the pangenomic analysis, 49 S. enterica genomes were input into the Roary pipeline. The majority of the stress related genes were considered as soft-core genes and were located on the chromosome. A desiccation stress phenotypic test was performed in trypticase soy broth (TSB) with four different water activity (aw) values. M2976 and M7864, both isolated from the peanut samples with the lowest aw, showed the highest OD570nm in TSB aw 0.964 and were statistically different (p < 0.05) from the strain isolated from the peanut sample with the highest aw (0.997). In conclusion, genome analyses have revealed signatures of desiccation adaptation in Salmonella strains, but phenotypic analyses suggested the environment influences the adaptive ability of Salmonella to overcome desiccation stress.

Quantitative detection of aflatoxin B1 in peanuts using Raman spectra and multivariate analysis methods.

Aflatoxin B1 (AFB1), among the identified aflatoxins, exhibits the highest content, possesses the most potent toxicity, and poses the gravest threat. It is commonly found in peanuts and their derivatives. This study employs Raman spectroscopy to monitor the AFB1 levels in moldy peanuts, providing a reliable theoretical basis for peanut storage management. Firstly, different degrees of moldy peanuts are spectrally characterized using a portable Raman spectrometer. Subsequently, a two-step hybrid strategy for feature selection is proposed, combining backward interval partial least squares (BiPLS) and variable combination population analysis (VCPA), aiming to simplify model complexity and enhance predictive accuracy. Finally, partial least squares (PLS) regression models are constructed based on different feature intervals and wavelength points. The research results reveal that the PLS regression model using the optimized feature intervals and wavelength points exhibits improved predictive capability and generalization performance. Notably, the BiPLS-VCPA-PLS model, established through the two-step optimization, selects nine wavelength variables, achieving a root mean square error of prediction (RMSEP) of 33.3147 µg∙kg-1, a correlation coefficient of the prediction set (RP) of 0.9558, and a relative percent deviation (RPD) of 3.4896. These findings demonstrate that the two-step feature optimization method, combining feature interval selection and feature wavelength selection, can more accurately identify optimal variables, thus enhancing detection efficiency and predictive precision.

Efficacy of atoxigenic Aspergillus flavus from southern China as biocontrol agents against aflatoxin contamination in corn and peanuts.

Aspergillus flavus is a ubiquitous facultative pathogen that routinely infects important crops leading to formation of aflatoxins during crop development and after harvest. Corn and peanuts in warm and/or drought-prone regions are highly susceptible to aflatoxin contamination. Controlling aflatoxin using atoxigenic A. flavus is a widely adopted strategy. However, no A. flavus genotypes are currently approved for use in China. The current study aimed to select atoxigenic A. flavus endemic to Guangxi Zhuang Autonomous Region with potential as active ingredients of aflatoxin biocontrol products. A total of 204 A. flavus isolates from corn, peanuts, and field soil were evaluated for ability to produce the targeted mycotoxins. Overall, 57.3% could not produce aflatoxins while 17.15% were incapable of producing both aflatoxins and CPA. Atoxigenic germplasm endemic to Guangxi was highly diverse, yielding 8 different gene deletion patterns in the aflatoxin and CPA biosynthesis gene clusters ranging from no deletion to deletion of both clusters. Inoculation of corn and peanuts with both an aflatoxin producer and selected atoxigenic genotypes showed significant reduction (74 to 99%) in aflatoxin B1 (AFB1) formation compared with inoculation with the aflatoxin producer alone. Atoxigenic genotypes also efficiently degraded AFB1 (61%). Furthermore, atoxigenic isolates were also highly efficient at reducing aflatoxin concentrations even when present at lower concentrations than aflatoxin producers. The use of multiple atoxigenics was not always as effective as the use of a single atoxigenic. Effective atoxigenic genotypes of A. flavus with known mechanisms of atoxigenicity are demonstrated to be endemic to Southern China. These A. flavus may be utilized as active ingredients of biocontrol products without concern for detrimental impacts that may result from introduction of exotic fungi. Field efficacy trials in the agroecosystems of Southern China are needed to determine the extent to which such products may allow the production of safer food and feed.

The potential for reducing aflatoxin B1 contamination of stored peanuts by soil disinfection.

Aflatoxins from the fungus Aspergillus flavus (A. flavus) that contaminate stored peanuts is a major hazard to human health worldwide. Reducing A. flavus in soil can decrease the risk of aflatoxins in stored peanuts. In this experiment, we determined whether peanuts grown on soil fumigated with dazomet (DZ), metham sodium (MS), allyl isothiocyanate (AITC), chloropicrin (PIC) or dimethyl disulfide (DMDS) would reduce of the quantity of A. flavus and its toxin's presence. The results of bioassays and field tests showed that PIC was the most effective fumigant for preventing and controlling A. flavus, followed by MS. PIC and MS applied to the soil for 14 d resulted in LD50 values against A. flavus of 3.558 and 4.893 mg kg-1, respectively, leading to almost 100% and 98.82% effectiveness of A. flavus, respectively. Peanuts harvested from fumigated soil and then stored for 60 d resulted in undetectable levels of aflatoxin B1 (AFB1) compared to unfumigated soil that contained 0.64 ug kg-1 of AFB1, which suggested that soil fumigation can reduce the probability of aflatoxin contamination during peanut storage and showed the potential to increase the safety of peanuts consumed by humans. Further research is planned to determine the practical value of our research in commercial practice.

Nuts and seeds - a scoping review for Nordic Nutrition Recommendations 2023.

Background: Nuts and seeds have been part of diets in most of the world for millenniums, and they have also been consumed in the Nordic and Baltic countries for centuries. Consumption of nuts and seeds is linked with various health outcomes. Therefore, when updating the Nordic Nutrition Recommendations (NNR), summarizing the best evidence on key health outcomes from the consumption of nuts and seeds is essential. Objectives: This study aims to evaluate the updated evidence on the consumption of nuts and seeds and health outcomes regarded relevant for the Nordic and Baltic countries, as well as their dose-response relationship presented in updated systematic reviews and meta-analyses. Method: The scoping review is built on a de novo systematic review and an umbrella review published in 2022 on the consumption of nuts and seeds and its various health outcomes, including cardiovascular disease and diabetes. Results: Intake of nuts and seeds is associated with a lower risk of cardiovascular diseases, with evidence assessed as probable. This conclusion is mirrored by evidence from trials on biomarkers for chronic diseases. An intake of a serving of nuts of 28-30 g/day compared to not eating nuts is estimated to translate into approximately 20% relative reduction in the risks of cardiovascular disease and premature deaths. For cancers, consumption of a serving of nuts is inversely associated with cancer mortality. However, for type 2 diabetes, there are mixed and inconclusive results. Additionally, there are inverse associations between nut consumption and respiratory and infectious disease mortality. Allergies for nuts are seen among 1-2% of the population. Conclusion: Overall, the current evidence supports dietary recommendations to increase nut consumption to a serving of nuts and seeds per day for people without allergies to these foods.

Effect of pre-drying and post-frying holding treatments on the oil absorption and quality of fried batter-coated peanuts.

In this study, the effect of pre-drying and post-frying holding treatments on the oil absorption and the quality of the fried batter-coated peanuts were explored. The results showed that hot air drying and microwave drying induced the gelatinization of starch in the batter before frying. The thermodynamic properties of starch in the batter after frying indicated that pre-drying could protect the orderliness of the starch. CLSM images showed that the pre-drying treatment reduced the number of large oil spots on the surface of batter of fried batter-coated peanuts. SEM observation revealed that the structure of the batter treated with pre-drying was denser and the number of large pores was reduced after frying. The post-frying holding treatment improved the color and texture of the batter-coated peanuts. In conclusion, the pre-drying and post-frying holding treatment can reduce the oil content and improve the fracturability of the fried batter-coated peanuts.

Weaning, food allergens and potential risk factors for delayed introduction: a cross-sectional study.

Much evidence supports that the early introduction of allergenic foods in weaning is useful to prevent food allergies later in life. Real life is often different, with factors related to mothers and infants. Our study aimed to deepen the timing of introducing the foods responsible for most allergic reactions during the weaning and why parents delay their introduction. 110 mothers participated in the study, compiling a questionnaire. Exclusive breastfeeding was associated with a delayed introduction of allergenic foods at 4 months (r = 0.433, p < 0.01) and 1 year (r = 0.486, p < 0.01). Large-for-gestational age at birth was inversely associated with a delayed introduction of allergenic foods (r=-0.204, p < 0.05). This study demonstrates that introducing many allergens is delayed during the weaning. Parents with infants fed with exclusive breastfeeding could need more information about the correct time of introduction of potential allergens in the weaning.

Irrigation and Fertilization Scheduling for Peanut Cultivation under Mulched Drip Irrigation in a Desert-Oasis Area.

The aim of this study was to investigate the impact of water and nitrogen regulation on the characteristics of water and fertilizer demands and the yield, quality, and efficiencies of the water and nitrogen utilization of peanuts cultivated under mulched drip irrigation in a desert-oasis region. The experiment, conducted in Urumqi, Xinjiang, centered on elucidating the response mechanisms governing peanut growth, yield, quality, water consumption patterns, and fertilizer characteristics during the reproductive period under the influence of water and nitrogen regulation. In the field experiments, three irrigation levels were implemented, denoted as W1 (irrigation water quota of 22.5 mm), W2 (irrigation water quota of 30 mm), and W3 (irrigation water quota of 37.5 mm). Additionally, two nitrogen application levels, labeled N1 (nitrogen application rate of 77.5 kg·ha-1) and N2 (a nitrogen application rate of 110 kg·ha-1), were applied, resulting in seven treatments. A control treatment (CK), which involved no nitrogen application, was also included in the experimental design. The results indicate a direct correlation between the increment in the irrigation quota and increases in farmland water-related parameters, including water consumption, daily water consumption intensity, and water consumption percentage. The nitrogen harvest index (NHI) demonstrated a higher value in the absence of nitrogen application compared to the treatment with elevated nitrogen levels. The application of nitrogen resulted in an elevation in both nitrogen accumulation and nitrogen absorption efficiency within pods and plants. When subjected to identical nitrogen application conditions, irrigation proved to be advantageous in enhancing water-use efficiency (WUE), nitrogen partial factor productivity (NPFP), and the yield of peanut pods. The contribution rate of water to pod yield and WUE exceeded that of nitrogen, while the contribution rate of nitrogen to nitrogen-use efficiency (NUE) was higher. The total water consumption for achieving a high yield and enhanced water- and nitrogen-use efficiencies in peanuts cultivated under drip irrigation with film mulching was approximately 402.57 mm. Taking into account yield, quality, and water- and nitrogen-used efficiencies, the use of an irrigation quota of 37.5 mm, an irrigation cycle of 10-15 days, and a nitrogen application rate of 110 kg·ha-1 can be regarded as an appropriate water and nitrogen management approach for peanut cultivation under mulched drip irrigation in Xinjiang.

Peanut Allergy and Component-Resolved Diagnostics Possibilities-What Are the Benefits?

Peanut allergy is a widespread and potentially life-threatening condition that affects both children and adults, with a growing incidence worldwide. It is estimated to affect around 1-2% of the population in several developed countries. Component-resolved diagnostics is a modern approach to allergy diagnosis that focuses on identifying specific allergenic proteins to provide precise diagnoses and personalized treatment plans. It is a technique that enables the analysis of specific IgE antibodies against tightly defined molecules (components) that constitute the allergen. Component-resolved diagnostics is particularly valuable in peanut allergy diagnosis, helping to determine allergen components associated with severe reactions. It also aids in predicting the course of the allergy and enables the development of personalized immunotherapy plans; however, the full application of it for these purposes still requires more precise studies. In this paper, we present the current knowledge about peanut allergy and component-resolved diagnostics possibilities. We discuss the possibilities of using molecular diagnostics in the diagnosis of peanut allergy. We focus on examining and predicting the development of peanut allergy, including the risk of anaphylaxis, and describe the latest data related to desensitization to peanuts.

Morphological, biochemical and histological effects of aqueous extracts of peanut (Arachis hypogaea) on swiss mice in different diets

ABSTRACT Purpose: To evaluate the morphological, biochemical, and histological effects of aqueous extracts of peanut (skinless and added to 1% skin) in Swiss mice submitted to a high-fat diet. Methods: Forty male Swiss mice were divided into four groups (n=10 per group): GI) normocaloric diet; GII) high-fat diet; GIII) high-fat diet + 0.5 mL of peanut extract; GIV) high-fat diet + 0.5 mL of peanut extract + 1% peanut skin. The animals were weighed weekly and euthanized after 12 weeks for histopathological and biochemical analyses. The study was approved by the Animal Use Ethics Committee. Results: The animals in the GIV group had higher body weight when compared to the other ones. Increase in total cholesterol in GIII, increase in blood glucose in groups GII, GIII and GIV, decrease in serum low-density lipoprotein (LDL) concentration in groups GI and GIV and increase in serum concentration of C-reactive protein in GII were seen. The presence of vacuolar fat deposits was found in animal livers from GII. Conclusions: The extracts improved the plasma concentrations of animals that received a high-fat diet, including preventing morphological damage to liver tissue. These benefits were enhanced by the association of peanut shells with the extract.

Análisis cinemático de la masticación de una granola prototipo en contraste con la masticación de maní / Kinematic analysis of chewing by using a granola prototype and peanut

La masticación se ha estudiado desde diferentes puntos de vista, utilizando alimentos de prueba naturales y artificiales. La evidencia es escasa cuando se analizan alimentos a base de cereales, que van desde cereales para el desayuno hasta barras de granola. El investigar este tipo de alimentos, se vuelve importante para entender el comportamiento de la masticación frente a alimentos con diferentes composiciones y texturas, y como estas características pueden influir en el proceso masticatorio. Se analizó la masticación desde un punto de vista cinemático, en sujetos jóvenes dentados. El alimento de prueba utilizado fue granola prototipo y maní, este último se ha estudiado en sujetos con rehabilitación protésica y su consumo se recomienda en esta población. Se analizaron las características cinemáticas de la masticación como numero de ciclos, frecuencia masticatoria, velocidad de masticación de ascenso y descenso, y el área de masticación en los tres planos del espacio. Se relacionaron los movimientos masticatorios con los movimientos mandibulares bordeantes que conformaron el polígono de Posselt, este también se analizó en los tres planos espaciales. En todas las variables analizadas la granola presento valores mayores, excepto en el número de ciclos masticatorios, sólo se encontraron diferencias estadísticamente significativas (p= 0,03) al comparar la velocidad (ascenso y descenso) y el área de masticación en el plano horizontal.

Chewing has been studied from different points of view, using natural and artificial foods test. When analyzing cereal-based foods, from breakfast cereals to granola bars, the evidence is scarce. Investigate this type of food is important to understand the behavior of chewing, with foods of different compositions and textures, and how these characteristics can influence the chewing process. Chewing was analyzed from a cinematic point of view, in young subjects complete dental. The test food used was prototype granola and peanuts, last one has been studied in subjects with prosthetic rehabilitation and its consumption is recommended in this population. The kinematic characteristics of chewing were analyzed: number of cycles, chewing frequency, ascent and descent chewing speed, and the chewing area in the three planes of space. The masticatory movements were related to the bordering mandibular movements, that formed the Posselt polygon, which was also analyzed in the three spatial planes. In all the variables analyzed, granola showed higher values, except in the number of chewing cycles, only statistically significant differences (p = 0.03) were found when comparing speed (ascent and descent) and the chewing area in the horizontal plane.

Incidência de aflatoxinas B1, B2, G1 e G2 em amendoins / Incidence of aflatoxins B1, B2, G1 and G2 in peanuts

Micotoxinas são substâncias tóxicas produzidas por fungos e encontradas nos alimentos. As micotoxinas mais tóxicas são as aflatoxinas, produzidas, principalmente por Aspergillus flavus. Estudos realizados no país demonstraram alta incidência dessas micotoxinas em produtos de amendoim, que representa risco à saúde da população. O objetivo do estudo foi avaliar a incidência de aflatoxinas B1, B2, G1 e G2 em amostras de amendoins comercializados na região Nordeste do Estado de São Paulo nos períodos de 1994-2001 e 2016-2017. O método utilizado para analisar as amostras no primeiro período foi extração líquido-líquido e cromatografia em camada delgada e no segundo foi utilizando colunas de imunoafinidade, cromatografia líquida com derivatização pós-coluna e detector por fluorescência. No levantamento de 1994-2001 das 82 amostras, 39% tiveram contaminação de aflatoxinas variando de 11 a 1556 μg/kg com 37% das amostras contendo níveis maiores que 20 μg/kg, enquanto na pesquisa de 2016-17, das 56 amostras, 38% apresentaram contaminação destas toxinas variando de 0,09 a 60,40 μg/kg com 13% das amostras contendo níveis maiores que 20 μg/kg. Os resultados dos dois períodos estudados indicam que houve uma diminuição na incidência e nível das aflatoxinas estudadas, embora esta contaminação em amendoim permaneça um problema de saúde pública.

Mycotoxins are toxic compounds produced by fungi found in food. The most toxic mycotoxins are the aflatoxins produced mainly by Aspergillus flavus. Studies carried out in Brazil showed a high incidence of these mycotoxins in peanut products, a fact that represents public health problems. The aim of the study was to evaluate aflatoxins B1, B2, G1, and G2 in samples of peanuts sold in cities of the Northeast of the State of São Paulo in the period from 1994 to 2001 and from 2016 to 2017. The samples of the first period were analyzed using liquid-liquid extraction and thin-layer chromatography and the second using immunoaffinity columns, post-column derivative liquid chromatography and fluorescence detector. In the 1994-2001 survey, among 82 samples, 39% presented aflatoxins contamination ranging from 11 to 1556 μg/kg with 37% with levels greater than 20 μg/kg whereas, in the 2016-17 survey, 38% of the 56 samples presented contamination of aflatoxins ranging from 0.09 to 60.40 μg/kg and 7 samples 13% containing aflatoxins levels higher than 20 μg/kg. The results indicated there was a decrease in the incidence and level of aflatoxins, but the contamination of aflatoxins in peanuts remains a public health problem.

Occurrence and exposure assessment to aflatoxins in peanuts commercialized in the northwest of Parana, Brazil / Ocorrência e avaliação da exposição as aflatoxinas em amendoim comercializado na região noroeste do Paraná, Brasil

ABSTRACT: Peanuts are a nutritious food consumed worldwide. Some species of the genus Aspergillus, producers of aflatoxins, colonize peanuts. Human exposure to aflatoxins occurs by ingesting contaminated foods. The objective of this paper was to assess the occurrence and dietary exposure of the population to aflatoxins in peanuts commercially available in Maringa, Brazil, from May 2013 to April 2017. A total of 104 peanut samples were evaluated by thin-layer chromatography and confirmed by derivatization with trifluoroacetic acid. The contamination rate detected was 24.0% in average concentration of 13.4µg/kg. Twenty positive samples (19.2%) exceeded the maximum level permitted in Brazil for the sum of four aflatoxins. Estimated probable daily intake was 1,28 µg/kg body weight/day, exceeding the Provisional Maximum Tolerable Daily Intake (0.001μg/kg body weight/day). According to the high levels of aflatoxins found in peanuts, there is need for further monitoring the presence of aflatoxins in peanuts in natura to reduce the levels of contamination.

RESUMO: O amendoim é um alimento nutritivo e muito consumido no mundo todo. Algumas espécies de fungos do gênero Aspergillus, produtores de aflatoxinas, colonizam o amendoim. A exposição humana as aflatoxinas ocorre por meio do consumo de alimentos contaminados. O objetivo deste estudo foi avaliar a ocorrência e exposição da população as aflatoxinas em amendoim comercializado no município de Maringá, Brasil, durante o período de maio de 2013 a abril de 2017. Foram avaliadas 104 amostras de amendoim por análise cromatográfica e confirmadas por derivação com ácido trifluoroacético. A frequência de contaminação foi de 24,0% em concentração média de 13,4µg/kg. Vinte amostras positivas (19,2%) apresentaram-se acima do limite máximo permitido no Brasil para a somatória das quatro aflatoxinas. A ingestão diária provável média encontrada foi de 1,28µg/kg peso corpóreo/dia, superando a ingestão diária máxima tolerável provisória (0,001µg/kg peso corpóreo/dia). De acordo com os elevados teores de aflatoxinas encontrados em amendoim, há necessidade de um maior monitoramento da presença de aflatoxinas em alimentos, tendo em vista a redução nos níveis de contaminação do amendoim in natura.

Fungos potencialmente toxigênicos em amostras de amendoim disponível para o consumo humano / Potentially toxigenic fungi in peanut samples available for human consumption

Avaliou-se a contaminação por fungos potencialmente toxigênicos em amendoim in natura disponível para consumo humano e comercializado em supermercados de Juiz de Fora, MG. Foram adquiridas 31 amostras de sete diferentes marcas de amendoim em grãos cru; amendoim torrado em grãos e amendoim torrado e triturado (moído), em embalagens originais e invioladas, em cinco estabelecimentos comerciais. A análise da presença de fungos potencialmente toxigênicos nos grãos de amendoim foi realizada por meio da técnica de plaqueamento direto em placas de Petri, contendo os meios de cultura Ágar Batata Dextrose (ABD) e Ágar Dicloran Rosa de Bengala Cloranfenicol (ADRBC). Das 31 amostras analisadas, 17 (54,84%) estavam contaminadas por fungos potencialmente toxigênicos (Aspergillus niger, Aspergillus flavus e/ou Aspergillus parasiticus, Aspergillus fumigatus e Penicillium spp) além de outros não toxigênicos (Rhizopus spp. e leveduras). O índice de contaminação nas diferentes amostras de amendoim avaliadas foi expressivo, sendo que as espécies encontradas foram de fungos potencialmente toxigênicos produtores de micotoxinas importantes como as aflatoxinas.

Occurrence of fungi and aflatoxins B in nuts and products marketed the Brazilian northeastern regions / Ocorrência de fungos e aflatoxinas do tipo B em castanhas e produtos comercializados no Nordeste brasileiro

Aflatoxin contamination has been considered as a public health problem, especially in tropical countries, including Brazil. In order to investigate the presence of type B aflatoxins in products marketed in the city of Fortaleza, 23 samples were analyzed by thin layer chromatography. Visible fungal contamination in food was identified according to their macroscopic and microscopic features. The contamination by aflatoxins was detected in 8.7 % of 23 analyzed samples, and 12.5 % of Brazilian nuts samples were positive for AFB1 (<8 µg/kg) and for AFB2 in a contamination rate above the allowed value (16 µg/kg). Among the peanut samples, 33.3 % were positive to AFB1 and AFB2, also in a contamination rate (317.1 µg/kg) which was higher than that recommended by ANVISA. The isolation and morphological characteristics of fungi detected mainly in Brazilian nuts with peel showed the occurrence of the following species: Aspergillus flavus, Aspergillus niger, Mucor sp, Cladosporium sphaerospermum, Cladosporium cladosporoides, Fusarium sp, Aspergillus terreus and bacteria of Actinomycetes phylum. These findings indicate that it is needed to apply the mostly effective quality monitoring of food available to consumers.

A contaminação por aflatoxinas tem sido considerada um problema de saúde pública principalmente em países tropicais, incluindo o Brasil. Com o intuito de investigar a presença de aflatoxinas do tipo B em produtos comercializados na cidade de Fortaleza, 23 amostras foram analisadas por meio de cromatografia em camada delgada. Os fungos visivelmente presentes em alimentos foram identificados de acordo com suas características macroscópicas e microscópicas. A contaminação por aflatoxina foi detectada em 8,7 % das 23 amostras analisadas; e 12,5 % das amostras de castanha-do-Brasil apresentaram positividade para AFB1 (<8 µg/kg) e para AFB2 com taxa de contaminação acima do valor permitido (16 µg/kg). Quanto às amostras de amendoim, 33,3 % apresentaram positividade para AFB1 e AFB2, também com nível de contaminação (317,1 µg/kg) acima do preconizado pela ANVISA. O isolamento e a caracterização morfológica dos fungos encontrados principalmente nas castanhas-do-Brasil com casca revelaram a presença das espécies: Aspergillus flavus, Aspergillus niger, Mucor sp, Cladosporium sphaerospermum, Cladosporium cladosporoides, Fusarium sp, Aspergillus terreus e bactérias do filo Actinomicetos. Estes resultados demonstram que há necessidade de fiscalização mais efetiva da qualidade dos alimentos oferecidos aos consumidores.

Occurrence of fungi and aflatoxins B in nuts and products marketed the Brazilian northeastern regions / Ocorrência de fungos e aflatoxinas do tipo B em castanhase produtos comercializados no nordeste brasileiro

Aflatoxin contamination has been considered as a public health problem, especially in tropical countries, including Brazil. In order to investigate the presence of type B aflatoxins in products marketed in the city of Fortaleza, 23 samples were analyzed by thin layer chromatography.Visible fungal contamination in food was identified according to their macroscopic and microscopic features. The contamination by aflatoxins was detected in 8.7 % of 23 analyzedsamples, and 12.5 % of Brazilian nuts samples were positive for AFB1 (<8 µg/kg) and for AFB2 in a contamination rate above the allowed value (16 µg/kg). Among the peanut samples,33.3 % were positive to AFB1 and AFB2, also in a contamination rate (317.1 µg/kg) which was higher than that recommended by ANVISA. The isolation and morphological characteristics of fungi detected mainly in Brazilian nuts with peel showed the occurrence of the followingspecies: Aspergillus flavus, Aspergillus niger, Mucor sp, Cladosporium sphaerospermum, Cladosporium cladosporoides, Fusarium sp, Aspergillus terreus and bacteria of Actinomycetes phylum. These findings indicate that it is needed to apply the mostly effective quality monitoringof food available to consumers.

A contaminação por aflatoxinas tem sido considerada um problema de saúde públicaprincipalmente em países tropicais, incluindo o Brasil. Com o intuito de investigar a presença de aflatoxinas do tipo B em produtos comercializados na cidade de Fortaleza, 23 amostrasforam analisadas por meio de cromatografia em camada delgada. Os fungos visivelmentepresentes em alimentos foram identificados de acordo com suas características macroscópicase microscópicas. A contaminação por aflatoxina foi detectada em 8,7 % das 23 amostrasanalisadas; e 12,5 % das amostras de castanha-do-Brasil apresentaram positividade paraAFB1 (<8 μg/kg) e para AFB2 com taxa de contaminação acima do valor permitido (16 μg/kg). Quanto às amostras de amendoim, 33,3 % apresentaram positividade para AFB1 e AFB2, também com nível de contaminação (317,1 μg/kg) acima do preconizado pela ANVISA. O isolamento e a caracterização morfológica dos fungos encontrados principalmente nas castanhas-do-Brasilcom casca revelaram a presença das espécies: Aspergillus flavus, Aspergillus niger, Mucor sp, Cladosporium sphaerospermum, Cladosporium cladosporoides, Fusarium sp, Aspergillus terreuse bactérias do filo Actinomicetos. Estes resultados demonstram que há necessidade de fiscalização mais efetiva da qualidade dos alimentos oferecidos aos consumidores.