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Effect of Temperature, Relative Humidity, and Incubation Time on the Mycotoxin Production by Fusarium spp. Responsible for Dry Rot in Potato Tubers

Summary

This research examines how temperature and humidity during potato storage affect the growth of disease-causing fungi and their toxic byproducts. The study found that warmer, more humid storage conditions dramatically increase both fungal growth and dangerous toxin production in potatoes. Certain potato varieties became more susceptible to disease as they were stored longer. The toxin levels detected exceeded European safety limits, suggesting contaminated potatoes should be removed to protect consumer health.

Background

Potato is the fourth most consumed crop globally, with over half stored at cold temperatures for 3-9 months. Dry rot, a fungal disease caused by Fusarium spp., causes significant tuber losses during storage. Little is known about how environmental factors influence mycotoxin accumulation in potato tubers during storage.

Objective

This study aimed to elucidate the effect of three different temperatures (5, 10, and 15°C) and two water activities (0.97, 0.99) on the ecophysiology and mycotoxin accumulation of F. sambucinum and F. oxysporum. The research also evaluated mycotoxin accumulation in potato tubers under commercial storage conditions across different cultivars and storage stages.

Results

Higher temperatures and water activity enhanced fungal growth rate and mycotoxin accumulation. Growth rate increased 3.6-fold from 5°C to 15°C. Six mycotoxins were detected in vitro (T-2, HT-2, DAS, 15-AS, NEO, beauvericin), with T-2 being most abundant at 10⁶ ng/g. In vivo studies showed mycotoxin accumulation increased with longer storage time, particularly in cv. Casablanca.

Conclusion

Environmental fluctuations in potato storage facilities promoting fungal development and mycotoxin accumulation pose food safety and economic risks. Regular monitoring of storage conditions, especially in temperature-sensitive zones, and consideration of cultivar-specific disease severity changes are essential. T-2 and HT-2 levels exceeded EU maximum limits, warranting disposal of contaminated tubers to prevent consumer exposure.
  • Published in:Toxins (Basel),
  • Study Type:Experimental Study,
  • Source: PMID: 39453190, DOI: 10.3390/toxins16100414
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