Aflatoxin contamination: ICRISAT conducts training for agriculture professionals

Aflatoxins affect various food crops. Chronic exposure can lead to liver cancer, immune suppression, and stunted growth in children

Sangareddy: The International Crops Research Institute for Semi Arid Tropics (ICRISAT) conducted a two-week long training programme on aflatoxin contamination of agriculture crops for professionals from global south at the ICRISAT campus at Patancheru in Hyderabad.

Director General of ICRSIAT, Dr Himansu Pathak observed that aflatoxin contamination of agricultural crops such as groundnut, maize, and tree nuts (almonds, pistachios, etc.) was a potential public health concern in sub-Saharan Africa, south and south-east Asia.

Aflatoxins are widespread, affecting various food crops, including cereals, nuts, dairy products, and other agricultural commodities. Chronic exposure can lead to liver cancer, immune suppression, and stunted growth in children, while acute poisoning can be deadly. According to studies, about 2 billion people are exposed to mycotoxins.

The training had 34 participants from 16 countries. Representing ministries, research institutes, and universities, participants engaged in lectures and hands-on training at ICRISAT’s laboratories.

ICRISAT’s Deputy Director of General (Research and Innovation) Dr Stanford Blade said the hands-on training was just the beginning and that it would continue through them and the networks they build, strengthening efforts to combat aflatoxin contamination in their respective countries.