The ability of date extracts to support the production of aflatoxins

Aqueous extracts of the fruit of the date palm (Phoenix dactylifera L.) are being used widely in the Middle East, and they are often stored at high ambient temperatures and in vessels of dubious hygenic standards. It was shown that, if a toxigenic mould like Aspergillus parasiticus grew on the surface of such an extract, then aflatoxins could be synthesised. The levels of aflatoxin generated in experimental extracts depended upon the sugar content (glucose and fructose) of the solution, but extracts from all the varieties tested were able to support mycelial growth and aflatoxin production. It is suggested that care must be exercised during the commercial processing of dates for syrups and similar products. ©