Aspergillus section Flavi in peanut manufacturing chain in Morocco: Prevalence, chemotype diversity, and toxigenicity

The study examined the fungal contamination of peanuts, with a particular emphasis on the Aspergillus section Flavi species, which have the potential to generate carcinogenic mycotoxins like aflatoxin B1 (AFB1) and cyclopiazonic acid (CPA). From 30 soil, raw peanut, shelled peanut, and peanut based product samples, 156 strains were isolated and identified as A. flavus. Chromatographic analysis revealed four distinct chemotypes based on mycotoxin production: 55.7% of the isolates produced both CPA and AFB1, 27.5% produced AFB1, 9.6% produced CPA, and 7% were non-toxigenic. The presence of mycotoxigenic A. flavus strains in peanuts is a significant concern for peanut cultivation and human nutrition. This research is the first of its kind in Morocco, aiming to investigate mycotoxin exposure throughout the peanut supply chain.