Ochratoxin A and aflatoxins in breast milk samples from Sierra Leone.

Breast milk from 113 mothers in two 'Under-Five Clinics' in the Southern Province of Sierra Leone, namely, Njala and Bo, were examined for their mycotoxin content. Only 10 were mycotoxin-free. Eighty-eight per cent of samples contained various aflatoxins and 35% contained ochratoxin A (OTA).

Human fetal exposure to ochratoxin A and aflatoxins.

Analysis of 64 cord blood samples from pregnant women in Sierra Leone revealed the presence of ochratoxin A (OTA) and aflatoxins in 25% and 58% of samples, respectively. Of the eight maternal blood samples collected during delivery, one contained OTA and aflatoxins were detected in six. There was no relationship between mycotoxins in maternal and cord blood.

Mycotoxic flora and mycotoxins in smoke-dried fish from Sierra Leone.

Examination of 20 samples of smoke-dried fish of the Ethmolosa sp. commonly called "Bonga", from homes and markets in Njala (Sierra Leone) revealed the presence of 4 Aspergilli species: A. flavus Links ex Fries, A.

Mycological contamination of ogiri (fermented sesame seeds) during production in Sierra Leone.

'Ogiri' (fermented sesame seeds) was prepared in the laboratory and at home by selected participants. No fungal participation was observed during the normal fermentation process. However, fungal contamination was observed when improper handling techniques were employed.

Seedborne fungi of sesame (Sesamum indicum L) in Sierra Leone and their potential aflatoxin/mycotoxin production.

Sesame seeds (Sesamum indicum L) from four different geographic locations in Sierra Leone were sampled for their mycoflora. Three toxigenic Aspergillus species: A. flavus Link ex Fries, A.