Simultaneous distribution of aflatoxins B1 and B2, and fumonisin B1 in corn fractions during dry and wet-milling.

Unlabelled: One of the limitations of the use of corn in the food chain is its contamination with mycotoxins. Reduction in their levels can be achieved by processing the grain, which in the case of corn can be achieved by wet or dry milling. The aim of this study was to compare the distribution of aflatoxins B1 and B2, and fumonisin B1 in corn fractions obtained by dry and wet milling, aiming to identify conditions to mitigate the risk of exposure to these contaminants.

Particle size and physical-chemical characteristics of hydrothermally treated cornmeal on resistant starch content.

The influence of particle size and chemical composition of three different cornmeals on the resistant starch (RS) content formed during the hydrothermal treatment was studied. The changes in reducing sugars and phenolic acids in different fractions caused by the hydrothermal treatment were correlated with RS content. The cornmeal with smaller particle size had higher RS content (202 mg/g).

Effect of natural compounds on Fusarium graminearum complex.

Background: A search is underway for new solutions to counter farm loss caused by fungal contamination of grains, since the active agents of fungicides can remain in the environment and contribute to the development of resistant and toxigenic species. In this study, the antifungal activity of natural compounds (γ-oryzanol, phenolic extract of neem seeds and of rice bran) was assessed on three toxigenic strains of Fusarium graminearum isolated from wheat, rice and barley. Their efficacy was compared to that of synthetic fungicides.