Assessment of Mycotoxin Contamination in Groundnut (Arachis hypogaea) Value Chains in Katsina State: Implications for Food Safety

Mycotoxin contamination, particularly aflatoxin produced by Aspergillus flavus and Aspergillus parasiticus, is a persistent food safety hazard in groundnut (Arachis hypogaea) production and marketing systems in North West Nigeria. Katsina State is a major groundnut producing state, and exposure to aflatoxin-contaminated groundnut products poses serious health risks to producers, traders, and consumers. This study assesses the prevalence and concentration of aflatoxin B1 and total aflatoxins across multiple points in the groundnut value chain in Katsina State, from farm storage through to retail markets. Groundnut samples were collected from farm stores, aggregation points, and retail markets in three local government areas during the 2023 post-harvest period. Samples were analyzed using competitive enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA) and high-performance liquid chromatography with fluorescence detection. Results indicate that 58 percent of farm-stored samples exceeded the EU maximum limit of 2 micrograms per kilogram for aflatoxin B1, with concentrations increasing progressively through the value chain. Poorly ventilated storage facilities and delayed shelling were identified as primary contamination risk factors. The study recommends improved storage infrastructure, rapid aflatoxin testing at collection points, and aflatoxin awareness training for value chain actors in Katsina State. Keywords: aflatoxin, groundnut, food safety, value chain, Katsina State