Effect of gamma radiation in peanuts for inhibition of Aspergillus flavus and nutritional composition

Abstract

Care in food storage, controlling humidity and temperature, prevents fungal diseases in peanuts and the development of filamentous fungi in food and feed, which can result in the production of toxins known as mycotoxins. Ionizing radiation is a preventive method of food security, promoting inhibition of buds, delayed maturation, reduction of microbial load, elimination of pathogenic microorganisms, sterilization and disinfection in grains, cereals, fruits and spices. This work aimed to evaluate the effects of gamma radiation on the growth inhibition of aflatoxigenic fungi and on nutritional composition in peanut. Samples were collected directly from the producer (Petrolândia-PE) and Supply Central of Pernambuco (CEASA-PE), and then grains inside / outside pods were packed and subjected to irradiation at doses of 6, 9, 12 and 15 kGy. Fungal growth and nutritional composition of the samples before and after irradiation were analyzed and statistical analysis using the Mann-Whitney-Wilcoxon. The results showed that the samples originated from CEASA-PE had the highest rates of contamination. The radiation was effective in the inhibition of aflatoxigenic fungi, achieving to eliminate the action of fungi, regardless of dose. Only one non-irradiated sample, originated from CEASA-PE, showed positive production of aflatoxins in the middle LCA. No significant difference in the values of the nutritional composition, with increasing radiation dose. The irradiation was shown to be an effective process for preserving peanuts, because it prevents the growth of fungi, particularly aflatoxin producer, making it safer for consumption, without changing its nutritional composition.