Mycotoxin Contamination in Cereal Grains and Associated Risk Factors: A Case Study of Iringa Municipality, Tanzania

Author(s): Rahma Ally Rajabu, Peter M. Chilipweli, Revocatus Mang'ara

Background: Mycotoxins pose significant health risks to humans and animals, including acute aflatoxicosis from high-level exposure and chronic effects like increased liver cancer risk and immune suppression due to long-term low-level exposure. These risks are exacerbated among individuals with hepatitis B virus (HBV). In children, consumption of contaminated foods can lead to stunting and impaired growth.

Methods: A cross-sectional study was conducted to investigate risk factors for mycotoxin contamination in cereals within Iringa Municipality, Tanzania. The study enrolled 296 participants across four wards— Kwakilosa, Mlandege, Kihesa, and Ruaha—selecting two streets from each ward. A minimum of 25 respondents per street were recruited using quota and convenience sampling techniques. Data collection involved administering questionnaires to assess community knowledge on mycotoxin contamination and using a checklist to evaluate storage conditions and facilities for cereals.

Results: Most respondents (36.2%) were aged between 29–39 years, while only 3.6% were above 61 years. Notably, 87.2% lacked knowledge of mycotoxin contamination in cereals, with only 12.8% demonstrating some awareness. Storage conditions were suboptimal, with 56.6% of storage rooms lacking proper ventilation, and 67.1% of cereals stored in rooms without ceilings. Additionally, 60.8% of respondents leaned cereal bags directly against walls, increasing moisture absorption and fungal growth risks. While 86.7% cleaned packaging materials before use, only 46.9% and 44.8% cleaned storage rooms and milling machines, respectively. Most participants (80.4%) used woven sacks, whereas 22.4% and 46.9% used pallets and tarpaulins, respectively.

Conclusion: A significant proportion of respondents (87.2%) lacked knowledge about mycotoxin contamination in cereals. Inadequate storage practices were prevalent, with 77.6% storing cereals on bare floors and 60.8% leaning bags directly against walls. Additionally, 67.1% of storage areas lacked ceilings, further increasing contamination risks. Improved knowledge dissemination and better storage practices are critical to mitigating mycotoxin contamination in cereals.