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VOL. 7, ISSUE 4 (2025)
Assessment of aflatoxin risk in Groundnut (Arachis hypogaea L.): Insights from a regional survey in Kalyana Karnataka, India
Authors
Varshitha S, Raghavendra BT, Ajithkumar K, Pramesh D, Rajanna B
Abstract
Groundnut (Arachis hypogaea L.) is one of the most important
oilseed and food legumes globally, serving as a major source of edible oil and
plant-based protein. However, its production and quality are severely
constrained by contamination from Aspergillus flavus and its toxic
secondary metabolites, aflatoxins particularly aflatoxin B1 (AfB1), a potent
carcinogen. The present study was conducted during 2024-25 to assess the
incidence of A. flavus in groundnut kernels across five major
groundnut-growing districts of the Kalyana Karnataka region Raichur, Ballari,
Vijayanagara, Koppal and Yadgir. Groundnut pods were collected from farmer’s
fields, storage units and local markets and infection incidence was recorded
based on visual assessment of 100 seeds per sample. A total of 24 A. flavus
isolates were recovered from the collected samples. The incidence of A.
flavus infection varied widely among locations, ranging from 14 per cent
(Kudligi, Vijayanagara) to 55 per cent (Kurgodu, Ballari). Among districts,
Ballari recorded the highest mean infection (36.65 %), followed by Yadgir
(31.60 %), Raichur (29.20 %), and Koppal and Vijayanagara (27.62% each). The
variation in infection intensity could be attributed to differences in
environmental conditions, pod moisture and post-harvest storage practices. The
widespread occurrence of A. flavus indicates a significant risk of
aflatoxin contamination in groundnut from this region, necessitating
location-specific management strategies to ensure safer production, improved
oil quality and enhanced market value.
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Pages:36-39
How to cite this article:
Varshitha S, Raghavendra BT, Ajithkumar K, Pramesh D, Rajanna B "Assessment of aflatoxin risk in Groundnut (<i>Arachis hypogaea</i> L.): Insights from a regional survey in Kalyana Karnataka, India". International Journal of Ecology and Environmental Sciences, Vol 7, Issue 4, 2025, Pages 36-39
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