Determination of aflatoxin and some trace element contents in black pepper samples

Abstract

Concentrations of the total aflatoxin (AF), aflatoxin G1 (AFG1), aflatoxin G2 (AFG2), aflatoxin B1 (AFB1), aflatoxin B2 (AFB2) and some trace elements such as lead, cobalt, nickel, arsenic, copper, zinc, manganese, magnesium, iron, calcium and chromium in black pepper samples were determined. Four black pepper samples were collected from markets in Karaman/Turkey. Detection of toxins were performed using HPLC instruments after pre-separation using immunoaffinity columns working through a solid phase extraction. The heavy metal contents in black peppers were determined by flame atomic adsorption methods. Also, quantities of trace elements were determined in 4 samples collected during summer and winter months. The total AF was determined below the maximum limits in pepper samples. Quantities of Co, Ni, Cr, Cu, Zn, Pb, Mn, Fe, Mg and Ca were detected in the samples. When the results were evaluated, the values found for Cu, Zn and Mg were seen to be at normal levels. Co, Ni, Cr, Pb, Mn, Fe, Ca trace element concentrations were obtained above the normal limit but Co, Pb and Mn were found below the toxic limits.