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Implantation of Aspergillus Section Flavi in French Maize and Consequences on Aflatoxin Contamination of Maize at Harvest: Three-Year Survey

Summary

A harmful fungus called Aspergillus that produces cancer-causing toxins (aflatoxins) has become increasingly common in French maize crops over the past three years. Researchers collected and tested maize samples from across France and found that by 2020, about 80% of samples contained this fungus, and 16% had measurable levels of aflatoxins. This is happening because of hotter and drier conditions caused by climate change, which favor the fungus’s growth. The findings suggest that France needs to improve its monitoring and safety measures for maize to protect consumers and farmers.

Background

Aflatoxin B1, a carcinogenic mycotoxin, is traditionally found in tropical and subtropical regions but is emerging as a threat in Europe due to climate change. First detected in French maize in 2015 during exceptional climatic conditions, the regular occurrence of favorable conditions since then raises concerns about permanent establishment of aflatoxigenic fungal species in French fields.

Objective

To determine whether Aspergillus section Flavi species have become permanently established in French maize fields and assess the resulting risk of aflatoxin contamination by conducting a three-year survey of maize samples collected across France.

Results

Aspergillus section Flavi contamination increased from 54-56% in 2018-2019 to 80% in 2020. Aspergillus flavus dominated (>90% of strains) but A. parasiticus played a disproportionate role in grain contamination. Aflatoxin contamination was limited in 2018-2019 but increased significantly in 2020, affecting 16% of samples with 5.2% exceeding EU regulatory limits.

Conclusion

Aspergillus section Flavi species are now established in French maize fields, requiring evolution of monitoring and management strategies to protect consumers from carcinogenic aflatoxins and prevent economic losses to the maize sector.
  • Published in:Toxins (Basel),
  • Study Type:Epidemiological Survey,
  • Source: 10.3390/toxins17040155, PMID: 40278653
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