AFLATOXIN IN MAIZE

Aflatoxin B1 is a potent hepatacarcinogen that occurs in com worldwide. The aflatoxin-producing fungus Aspergillus flavus can grow and produce aflatoxin on com preharvest and in storage. Within the U.S., aflatoxin contamination of preharvest com has been reported in 23 states, and contamination is chronic in the southeastern U.S. where hot, drought conditions often favor the fungus and the production of aflatoxin. Management practices have been developed to reduce aflatoxin contamination, but in years when environmental conditions are extremely favorable for the fungus, no control strategy is effective. Resistance to aflatoxin accumulation appears to be heritable, but no commercial hybrids are available with adequate resistance. This review covers the epidemiology of A. flavus in preharvest com from the infection process to the factors that influence aflatoxin formation. Also discussed are the problems associated with the development of resistant varieties and new strategies that are being developed for control of aflatoxin contamination.