Gamma Irradiation for the Inactivation of Aspergillus flavus Link in Copra (Dried Cocos nucifera L. Meat)

Abstract

Aspergillus flavus is a known source of aflatoxin and other carcinogens that contaminates perishable goods such as copra, one of the top exports of the Philippines. Fungal contamination in perishable products has caused post-harvest losses and a significant threat to food safety and security. Existing methods to control or prohibit the growth of fungi have been a tedious process proven to be open to subsequent contamination. This study assessed the capability of gamma irradiation in inactivating A. flavus in copra. Locally acquired copra was inoculated with 5.8 × 103 CFU⁄ml of A. flavus’ spores. The contaminated copra was irradiated with varying doses of gamma radiation (0.3, 0.7, 1, 3 kGy). Results showed a decreasing trend in the fungal count as the absorbed doses of gamma irradiation increased. Irradiation of 0.7 kGy achieved a significant reduction of fungal count satisfying regulatory limits. The largest reduction in the fungal count was achieved by 3 kGy with < 1 log CFU⁄ml molds and yeast count (MYC). This study concludes that gamma radiation is effective in inactivating A. flavus.

Exploring the quality and safety issues in the coconut oil processing industry in Sri Lanka: A Review

“…Scientifically, the primary concern with copra is its contamination with aflatoxins due to inadequate drying methods, low-quality nuts, and improper storage (De Asis et al, 2020;Farias et al, 2019;Guchi, 2015). Sun-dried copra is especially prone to contamination, and aflatoxin B2 and G1 have been detected in local coconut oil (Herath et al, 2022;Lakshman et al, 2022).…”