Aflatoxin analysis in dried red pepper samples by TLC and HPLC

Abstract

In this study, aflatoxins (AFLs) B1, B2, G1 and G2 were determined in dried red pepper samples provided from markets, street bazaars and spice- sellers in Istanbul, using thin layer chromatography (TLC) and high performance liquid chromatography (HPLC). The number of samples used in the analysis by TLC, HPLC and both methods were 27, 5 and 6 respectively. The results from TLC and HPLC studies were compared. In Turkey the recommended limits for AFLB1 ise 5 ppb and total AFLs level is 20 ppb. In this research, aflatoxin B1 levels were higher than 5 ppb in about 50% of the samples and total AFL levels were ≥ 20 ppb in about 40% of samples.