Knowledge, Attitudes, and Practices of Grain and Legume Vendors Regarding Mycotoxins and Toxigenic Molds in Mali

Mali relies heavily on agriculture and requires an annual growth rate of 6% or more in this sector to achieve sustainable development overall. However, the contamination of essential cereals and legumes—key to reducing food insecurity in Africa—exacerbated by the proliferation of toxigenic fungi, represents a major constraint to the availability of safe food. The objective of this study was to assess the knowledge, attitudes, and practices of cereal and legume vendors regarding mycotoxins and toxigenic molds in Mali. This was a descriptive cross-sectional study conducted in 2024, involving 240 cereal and legume vendors across key production areas. Data were collected using questionnaires administered to the vendors. Among the respondents, 42.5% were aged between 36 and 45 years, with a minimum age of 15 and a maximum age of 75. Males made up the majority, accounting for 87.92%. Most vendors had a primary education level (24.16%), while 3.33% had higher education. Knowledge of fungi and mycotoxins was reported by 65% and 49% of respondents, respectively. Storage facilities were available for 96% of respondents, with 90% storing products for more than three months. Additionally, 52% of respondents dried their harvests directly in the field. Comprehensive, multisectoral approaches are needed to address the complex issues of fungi and mycotoxins, improve health outcomes, and enhance the incomes and livelihoods of farmers, farming households, and Malian consumers.