Review on impacts of aflatoxicosis in human and animal health in Ethiopia

Abstract

The objectives of the paper are to review about effect of aflatoxicosis on animal and human health, its economic significant, and to point out the control and prevention strategies. Aflatoxins are a group of related fungal secondary metabolites; primarily produced by the fungi, Aspergillus flavus and Aspergillus parasiticus. The production of aflatoxins within the fungus depends on the substrate and the particular enzymes and other environmental factors. Hence, the extent of contamination by aflatoxins varies according to geographic location and storage condition of crops and more importantly processing of food materials under favourable temperature and humidity conditions. The four major types of aflatoxin are aflatoxin B1 (AFB1), AFB2, AFG1andAFG2.Of these, AFB1is the most prevalent form and also the most potent of these toxins. The toxicity and potency of aflatoxins make them the primary health hazard as well as responsible for losses associated with contaminations of processed foods and feeds. Aflatoxicosis have a greatest negative impact, in animal and human health. The toxicity may range from acute sickness or death to chronic problems. They can induce stunted growth in young and fertility reduction in adults. Aflatoxins can also undermine child nutrition and development. They are carcinogenic, mutagenic, teratogenic and immunosuppressive in most mammalian species. The economic impact of aflatoxins derives directly from crop and livestock losses as well as indirectly from the cost of regulatory programs designed to reduce risks to animal and human health. Ethiopia is considered to provide a favourable situation, for the proliferation of aflatoxigenic fungi. Aflatoxin exposure can be reduced by proper pre-harvesting, drying and post-harvest sorting in a controlled environment. Hazard analysis and critical control point (HACCP) protocol to identify the source of intoxication and overcome the hazard conditions should be adopted.