scholarly journals Aflatoxins Occurrence in Spices

2021 ◽  
Author(s):  
Farman Ahmed ◽  
Muhammad Asif Asghar

A wide range of spices are used in most dishes as seasoning, colouring, texture developer, palatability or preserving food and beverages worldwide. However, the spices are produced mainly in developing countries where tropical and/or subtropical climate such as high temperature, heavy rainfall and humidity encourage fungal growth leading to increased occurrence of aflatoxins (AFs) in spices. Moreover, the inadequate implementation of good agricultural practice, good manufacturing practice and good hygienic practice in these countries are great alarming situation. AFs are considered as a carcinogenic, mutagenic, teratogenic and immunosuppressive to humans and are classified as hazardous food toxins. This chapter provides the worldwide production and regulations of spices, suitable conditions for the AFs production, worldwide occurrence of AFs, detection techniques and some aspect for the reduction of AFs in spices.

Toxins ◽  
2020 ◽  
Vol 12 (12) ◽  
pp. 789
Author(s):  
Darina Pickova ◽  
Vladimir Ostry ◽  
Jan Malir ◽  
Jakub Toman ◽  
Frantisek Malir

Spices are imported worldwide mainly from developing countries with tropical and/or subtropical climate. Local conditions, such as high temperature, heavy rainfall, and humidity, promote fungal growth leading to increased occurrence of mycotoxins in spices. Moreover, the lack of good agricultural practice (GAP), good manufacturing practice (GMP), and good hygienic practice (GHP) in developing countries are of great concern. This review summarizes recent data from a total of 56 original papers dealing with mycotoxins and microfungi in various spices in the last five years. A total of 38 kinds of spices, 17 mycotoxins, and 14 microfungi are discussed in the review. Worldwide, spices are rather overlooked in terms of mycotoxin regulations, which usually only cover aflatoxins (AFs) and ochratoxin A (OTA). In this paper, an extensive attention is devoted to the limits on mycotoxins in spices in the context of the European Union (EU) as well as other countries. As proven in this review, the incidence of AFs and OTA, as well as other mycotoxins, is relatively high in many spices; thus, the preparation of new regulation limits is advisable.


2018 ◽  
Vol 1 (4) ◽  
pp. 664-687 ◽  
Author(s):  
Rebecca Wheeler ◽  
Matt Lobley ◽  
Michael Winter ◽  
Carol Morris

Farmers today are increasingly facing pressure from policy and market forces to improve their environmental performance. Yet – despite widespread recognition of the negative externalities of agriculture on a national and global scale – many farmers would argue that, as “custodians of the countryside” they have always respected and cared for the local environment, and play a central role in creating and maintaining the countryside as we know it today. In this paper, we use evidence emerging from research with farmers across England and Wales to explore farmer accounts of environmental concern and action in the context of both traditional farming values and contemporary imperatives. We draw particularly on scholarly work around constructs of “good farming” to consider the extent to which environmental concern has been accommodated within a wide range of farming contexts across England and Wales. Our findings highlight an intrinsic sense of care towards the environment among farmers and reveal how environmental management has in many ways become an integral part of farming discourse; recognised as synergistic with personal and business goals concerning (i) personal respect for the environment and conservation; (ii) countryside custodianship; (iii) farm legacy and succession; (iv) “good” agricultural practice and compliance with regulation; and/or (v) financial profitability. We discuss some of the issues arising from our findings and offer our thoughts on implications for efforts to encourage farmers to carry out environmentally beneficial activities. Whilst expressions of environmental concern do not necessarily equate to effective action on the ground, recognising that many farmers believe environmental management to be part of good farming practice provides a more positive foundation for engaging with them on this topic than assuming they need to be cajoled into action.


2002 ◽  
Vol 6 (3) ◽  
pp. 433-454 ◽  
Author(s):  
H. P. Jarvie ◽  
A. J. Wade ◽  
D. Butterfield ◽  
P. G. Whitehead ◽  
C. I. Tindall ◽  
...  

Abstract. The INCA (Integrated Nitrogen in Catchments) model was applied to the River Tweed in the Scottish Borders, a large-scale (4400km2), spatially heterogeneous catchment, draining a wide range of agricultural land-use types, and which contributes approximately 20% of UK river flows to the North Sea. The model was calibrated for the first four years' data record (1994 to 1997) and tested over the following three years (1998 to 2000). The model calibration and testing periods incorporated a high degree of variability in climatic conditions and river flows within the Tweed catchment. The ability of the INCA model to reproduce broad-scale spatial patterns and seasonal dynamics in river flows and nitrate concentrations suggests that the processes controlling first order variability in river water nitrate concentrations have been represented successfully within the model. The tendency of the model to overestimate summer/early autumn baseflow nitrate concentrations during dry years may be linked to the operation of aquatic plant uptake effects. It is, therefore, suggested that consideration be given to incorporating a spatially and temporally variable in-stream plant uptake term for the application of INCA to lowland eutrophic rivers. Scenarios to examine possible impacts of environmental change on nitrate concentrations on the Tweed are examined. These include the effects of (i) implementing different recommendations for fertiliser use and land use change under the Nitrate Sensitive Areas (NSA) Scheme and the Scottish Code of Good Agricultural Practice, (ii) worst case scenario changes linked to a dramatic reduction in livestock numbers as a result of a crisis in UK livestock farming and (iii) changes in atmospheric nitrogen deposition. Keywords: Nitrate, nitrogen, modelling, Tweed, INCA


2019 ◽  
Vol 3 (2) ◽  
Author(s):  
Fahrizal ◽  
JASMAN ◽  
YEHESKIAL NGGANDUNG ◽  
KARTIWAN

Abstract. Fahrizal, Jasman, Nggandung Y, Kartiwan. 2019. Formulating strategies for development of lontar sugar industry in Rote Ndao Regency, East Nusa Tenggara Province. Trop Drylands 3: 41-48. Lontar (Borassus flabellifer) is a kind of palm tree exploited by home industries in Rote Ndao District, East Nusa Tenggara Province, for making sugar. Generally, the lontar sugar produced is molded sugar and crystal sugar. However, the home industries produce molded sugar more than the crystal one. This research aimed to formulate and determine the priority of strategies for development of the crystal sugar industry in Rote Ndao District. Depth interview techniques, observation, and literature studies were used to identify the strategic factors, which were then displayed in the form of EFE and IFE matrix. The value of each factor was obtained from pairwise comparison method. SWOT analysis released 5 strategies to be applied. The priority order of the strategies are: (i) development of crystal sugar industry by partnership system, (ii) application of technology for improving quality and quantity of the product, (iii) training of Good Manufacturing Practice and Good Agricultural Practice, (iv) institutional assistance from the related department, and (iv) increasing of marketing networks.


2015 ◽  
Vol 2 (1) ◽  
pp. 12-22 ◽  
Author(s):  
L. Pylypenko ◽  
K. Kalatur

Heterodera schachtii Schmidt, 1871 is one of the most economically important pests of sugar beet (Beta vulgaris L.) worldwide. It is also widespread in most sugar beet growing regions in Ukraine causing serious yield reduction and decreasing sugar content of sugar beet in infested fi elds. An advanced parasitic strategy of H. schachtii is employed to support nematode growth, reproduction and harmfulness. In intensive agriculture systems the nematode control measures heavily rely on nematicides and good agricultural practice (crop rota- tion in the fi rst place). But alternative strategies based on nematode resistant sugar beet cultivars and hybrids are required as none of nematicides approved for the open fi eld application are registered in Ukraine. Here we review the achievements and problems of breeding process for H. schachtii resistance and provide the results of national traditional breeding program. Since the beginning of 1980s fi ve sugar beet cultivars (Verchnyatskyi 103, Yaltuschkivska 30, Bilotcerkivska 45, BTs-40 and Yuvileynyi) and seventeen lines partly resistant or toler- ant to H. schachtii have been obtained throughout targeted crossing and progenies assessment in the infested fi elds. The further directions for better utilization of genetic sources for nematode resistance presented in na- tional gene bank collection are emphasized. There is a need for more accurate identifi cation of resistance genes, broader application of reliable molecular markers (suitable for marker-assisted selection of nematode resistant plants in the breeding process) and methods for genetic transformation of plants. Crop cash value and national production capacity should drive the cooperation in this fi eld. Knowledge as well as germplasm exchange are thereby welcomed that can benefi t breeding progress at national and international level.


Author(s):  
Rajeshwari Vittal ◽  
Juliet Roshini Mohan Raj ◽  
Ballamoole Krishna Kumar ◽  
Indrani Karunasagar

Abstract Legionella is a fastidious organism that is difficult to culture in the lab but is widely distributed in environmental, domestic, and hospital settings. The clinical manifestations due to Legionella infections range from mild fever to fatal pneumonia and multiorgan pathologies. Legionella outbreaks though prevalent globally are not reported in developing countries due to difficulties in isolating this organism and the lack of simple diagnostic protocols. Here, we review the literature from across countries to present various methods used to detect Legionella from environmental and clinical samples. We compare the sensitivity and the specificity of the conventional culture-based assays with the recent methods and discuss approaches to develop better detection and diagnostic tests. With better cost-effective detection techniques and regular monitoring of the susceptible sites, which may harbor Legionella colonies, most of the Legionella infections can be prevented. As a result, considerable burden, caused by Legionella infections, on the healthcare system, in especially economically weaker countries, can be mitigated.


2021 ◽  
Vol ahead-of-print (ahead-of-print) ◽  
Author(s):  
Martinson Ankrah Twumasi ◽  
Yuansheng Jiang ◽  
Salina Adhikari ◽  
Caven Adu Gyamfi ◽  
Isaac Asare

PurposeThis paper aims to examine the determinants of rural dwellers financial literacy in Ghana.Design/methodology/approachA cross-sectional primary data set was used to estimate the factors influencing rural farm households' financial literacy using the IV-Tobit model.FindingsThe findings reveal that most rural residents are financially illiterate. The econometrics model results depicted that respondents' socioeconomic and demographic characteristics such as gender, income, age and education significantly affect financial literacy. Again, respondents who are risk seekers and listen or watch education programs are more likely to be financially literate.Research limitations/implicationsThe paper examined the determinants of rural dwellers financial literacy in four regions in Ghana. Future research should consider all or many regions for an informed generalization of findings.Practical implicationsThis paper provides evidence that rural dwellers are financially illiterate and it would require the policymakers or non-governmental organizations (NGOs) to establish a village or community group that comprises a wide range of bankers and government officials to help rural dwellers acquire some financial skills. Also, the positive relationship between media (whether respondent watches or listens to educational programs) and financial literacy implies that policymakers should focus on improving individuals' financial knowledge through training programs and utilize the media as a channel to propagate financial education to the public.Originality/valueAlthough previous studies have examined the determinants of financial literacy, little is known in developing countries and, in particular, rural communities. The authors fill this gap by contributing to the scanty existing literature in developing countries in several ways. First, this is the first study to examine the financial literacy level of rural dwellers in Ghana. Second, to not undermine the credibility of the estimation results, this study addresses the potential endogeneity issue, which other researchers have not adequately recognized. Finally, the study expands the scant literature on the subject and provides critical policy implications that will help policymakers formulate financial market policies that will contribute to rural dwellers financial literacy enhancement.


Author(s):  
Elena Stepanovna Ustinovich ◽  
Tatyana Petrovna Boldyreva

It is clear to everyone that investment in the agricultural sector in developing countries is one of the most effective ways to reduce poverty and hunger in the world. Agricultural investment can generate a wide range of development opportunities. However, these benefi ts cannot be expected to arise automatically. Some forms of large-scale investment pose significant risks to investor states. It should be noted, however, that, despite discussions about the potential benefits and risks of international investment, there is still no evidence of negative actual consequences for the countries receiving investments. This article examines the issues of investment activity in relation to developing countries using the example of US agribusiness entities.


Author(s):  
Oluwatoyin Bukola Chete

Aims: This paper reviews the body of evidence on gender and agriculture and gender and enterprise (including farm enterprise) development in developing countries. Results: The resurgence of interest on the influence of gender and its subsequent mainstreaming into social and economic programmes and in particular, agricultural policy and practice, is largely a development of the 1990s and beyond. The extant body of literature on gender and agriculture is dominated by the liberal feminist construction that women are the disadvantaged group regarding resources such as time, assets (particularly land and credit) and household burden,Agricultural development would be facilitated if both men and women have equal access to resources for use in agricultural work. Conclusion: There is no unique pathway for bringing this about nor are there singular notions of success. Indeed, gender issues should be integrated into the agricultural enterprise from the beginning on the back of broad-based needs assessment schemes. Recommendation: The range of gender issues requiring intervention should include progressive identification and systematic dismantling of socio-cultural, ideological, institutional and legal barriers to equal participation of men and women in agricultural enterprise, orientating and skilling extension workers on gender issues and developing women and men cadre in extension services to cater to the specific needs of each gender and creating equal opportunities in education, employment and politics taking account of the realities of both gender.


2020 ◽  
Vol 5 (1) ◽  
pp. 45-50
Author(s):  
Husni Thamrin Sebayang ◽  
Kartika Yurlisa ◽  
Eko Widaryanto ◽  
Nurul Aini ◽  
Nur Azizah

APPLICATION OF GINGER PLANT CULTIVATION TECHNOLOGY IN THE YARD BASED ON HEALTH AGRICULTURE IN BOKOR VILLAGE, MALANG DISTRICT. House yard is one of the lands that have the potential to be developed. The yard can be used by growing high-value commodity crops. To get high yields and productivity, Farmers must choose the right and proper cultivation techniques. Besides, to get the results in the form of healthy food products, the cultivation process must be carried out by reducing the input of chemical compounds into the farm business. Therefore, community service activities were carried out in Bokor Village, Tumpang Subdistrict, Malang Regency. It was aimed to utilize the house yard by planting ginger based on healthy agriculture. The target group is farmers in the Subur Farmers Group. The stages of activities which were carried out were counseling on the use of house yards, training in ginger cultivation, providing assistance in planting materials and media, and making demonstration plots. The results of community service show that farmers want to try to use the yard by planting ginger in their yard. It also increased knowledge of farmers about ginger cultivation following Good Agricultural Practice so that the use of the yard with proper agriculture-based ginger cultivation can be developed.


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