Variations in trace metal and aflatoxin content during processing of high quality cassava flour (HQCF)

Abstract

Background: High Quality Cassava Flour (HQCF) has gained popularity in most parts of West Africa because of its versatility in many industries. However, due to the processing techniques used HQCF may contain trace metals and aflatoxins. Imperatively, the safety of HQCF was assessed when the levels of trace metal and aflatoxin contaminants was determined at the various unit operation during HQCF production. Results: Concentrations of essential trace metals, Cu, Fe and Zn ranged from 0.79 ± 0.09 to1.85 ± 0.26, 10.91 ± 0.44 to 16.64 ± 0.35 and 3.92 ± 0.03 to 10.79 ± 0.16 mg/kg respectively. Toxic trace metals; As and Pb were not detected in any of the samples analysed. The maximum concentration of Hg determined was <0.1 mg/kg. Aflatoxin B1, B2, G1 and G2 were not detected in any of the HQCF samples analysed. Conclusion: The concentrations of As, Cu, Fe, Hg, Pb, and Zn in HQCF were below the limit set by WHO whilst aflatoxin B1, B2, G1 and G2 was not detected in HQCF and therefore pose no public health threat