Aflatoxin (AF) is a secondary fungal metabolite and is hazardous to public health because it is a human carcinogen. Rice is one of the better substrates for the fungal strains Aspergillus flavus and A. parasiticus, which can produce AFs. The incidence and level of AF in rice and rice products and by-products of rice on a global scale have been reviewed. Incidences and levels of AF contamination seem to vary depending on the sample type and the location where the samples were obtained. Incidences of AF in more than 2511 samples of rice and rice products and by-products of rice appear to be 36.6%, and 57.8%, respectively. Their levels of AFB1 and total AF ranged from 0-185 mg/kg. Even some of the polished rice samples showed levels above 20 mg/kg. Monitoring is necessary to provide background data that can support a hygienic index of aflatoxin control in rice. Integrated approaches to control AF in rice and rice products at all stages of production and storage should be necessary. Strategies to protect farm animals from aflatoxin may also provide an effective approach to protecting human populations.
Ⅰ. Introduction
Ⅱ. Incidence of AF in Rice and Rice Products
Ⅲ. Levels of AF in Rice and Rice Products
Ⅳ. Incidence and Levels of AF in By-products of Rice
Ⅴ. Summary and Conclusions