pepper (15 mg kg1
). Similar to their findings, in our study OTA was
detected in all the samples examined, and OTA levels in 80% of the
dried eggplant samples and 100% of the dried green bell pepper
samples exceeded the 15 mg kg1 limit set in Turkey and the European
Union for dried spice red pepper.
As a result of a literature search, no studies were found on OTA
contamination in dried eggplants and dried green bell peppers.
Owing to the small number of studies and the presence of mycotoxin
in the samples examined here, the necessity of examining
these food types for their mycotoxin content is urgent. We believe
that further studies on the presence of mycotoxins in dried eggplants
and green bell peppers will provide a basis for formulating
regulations on mycotoxin limits in these food types. Also, the examination
of traditional products in terms of mycotoxins will help
raise awareness among both producers and consumers of these
products about their possible contamination.
4. Conclusions
Preventing the formation of mycotoxins in food is of great public
health and economic importance. Therefore, taking the necessary
precautions when drying and storing vegetables at various stages of
production common in traditional practices is of great importance.
As a result of these analyses, aflatoxin G2, G1, B2, B1, and OTA were
detected in dried eggplants and dried green bell peppers that were
considered suitable for human consumption and sold on the domestic
markets in Turkey. In order to reduce the chances of
mycotoxin formation during stages of vegetable handling, from
harvesting and drying to consumption, vegetables should be harvested
at full maturity and without delay. In addition, raising public
awareness about this subject is a crucial measure that can be taken.
In Turkey and the European Union, no upper limits of allowable
aflatoxins and OTA content have been defined for dried eggplants
and green bell peppers. Our findings suggest that the scope of these
limits should be extended until legal regulations can be
promulgated.
Acknowledgement
This work was supported by Celal Bayar University Research
Fund (Project No. 2014/165).