Impact of Maize Storage Methods on Aflatoxin Contamination In Eight Districts of Southern Province of Rwanda

Abstract

Aflatoxin levels were measured in 900 farmer’s stores grouped into 18 respective cooperatives throughout the whole parts of the southern region of Rwanda to assess the effects of different approaches of storage on aflatoxin attacks on maize. Questionnaires, maize sampling, and laboratory testing methods were used in this study to find out which storage techniques were linked to greater or lower aflatoxin levels in stored maize in the southern region of Rwanda so that extension services could be recommended on aflatoxin-reducing measures. Farmers were questioned on the structure of their storage, form, period, and pest problems in storage, as well as what they did to battle them and the sample was taken for aflatoxin testing, the presence of aflatoxin in stored corn was negatively associated to pesticide application. Aflatoxin contamination was found to be lower (2.8 parts per billion) when grain was stored in bags with pallets; aflatoxin levels were higher (88.5 parts per billions)in those who stored corn under their roofs. Henceforth, appropriate maize storage, sorting out of damaged cobs, the use of appropriate storage insecticides, storage in well-equipped, hygienic, and aerated stores with pallets, and farmers being aware of the risk that insects and aflatoxins pose to their stored maize, were found to minimize the level of aflatoxin in stored maize.