Aflatoxin Contamination in Retailed Elaeagnus angustifolia Powder in Ardabil

Mycotoxins have been reported to be carcinogenic, teratogenic, genotoxic, hepato- and nephrotoxic. Based on the literature review, there is a need for more studies on the mycotoxin contamination in all types of foods. In this study, 20 samples of Elaeagnus angustifolia L. powder were purchased randomly and clustered based on the distribution of sales areas from different districts in Ardabil city. The determination of aflatoxin contamination was carried out using high performance liquid chromatography and immunoaffinity column clean-up.According to the results, seventeen of 20 samples (85%) were found contaminated with aflatoxins in the range of 30.40-2360.0 µg/kg. Both AFB1 and AFB2 were detected in 85% of samples. 80% and 70% samples had AFG1 and AFG2, respectively. The contamination levels were exceeded the maximum limit of Iran and European Union. These findings suggest an urgent need to monitor contamination of aflatoxin and consuming population of Elaeagnus angustifolia L. powder in Iran.