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ABSTRACT
This study investigates the prevalence of aflatoxin contamination in peanuts sold across supermarkets in Benin City, Nigeria. Aflatoxins are highly toxic metabolites produced by certain fungi, primarily Aspergillus species, and pose significant health risks to consumers. The research aims to assess the extent of aflatoxin contamination in peanuts and its association with microbial contamination, focusing on aerobic microbes, fungi, and coliforms. Samples of peanuts were collected from different local government areas (LGAs) in Benin City, purchased from four supermarkets in each LGA. Microbiological analyses were conducted to determine the total count of aerobic microbes, fungi, and coliforms in the samples. Additionally, aflatoxin levels were measured using appropriate analytical techniques. The results revealed varying levels of aerobic microbe counts across the LGAs. Oredo had significantly higher levels With the count (3.20 × 105 ± 2.01 to 7.00 × 105 ± 1.00 cfu/g) Egor had the highest coliform count, while Ikpoba Okha had the least. Egor exhibited the highest levels of fungi count (15.00 × 105 ± 0.10 to 11.20×105 ± 0.60 cfu/g). These findings indicate the presence of microbial contamination in peanuts sold across supermarkets in Benin City. The results showed varying levels of aflatoxin contamination (13.20 ± 2.00 - 13.20 ± 2.00 ppb), with Oredo and Ovia exhibiting higher levels and Ikpoba Okha and Egor showing relatively lower levels. These findings highlight the prevalence of aflatoxin contamination in peanuts sold in supermarkets and raise concerns about potential health risks for consumers.
