Aflatoxin concentrations in chilies vary depending on variety

Aflatoxin (AF) contamination was determined in 40 chili samples, representing 3 varieties from Punjab, Pakistan, by HPLC with fluorescence detection. Total AF were determined in varieties Longi (n = 15), Wonder hot (n = 12), and Skyline 1 (n = 13), and the concentrations were high in some samples. AF were detected in 9 (60%), 8 (67%), and 7 (54%) of Longi, Wonder hot, and Skyline 1 samples, respectively; concentration ranged from 4.7 to 34.6, 1.0 to 14.3, and 7.8 to 15.6 mu/kg, respectively. The percentage of samples greater than the European Union statutory limit for AFB1 and total AF in spices were 53% and 53%, 53% and 8%, and 53% and 38% for Longi, Wonder hot, and Skyline 1, respectively. Significant differences at alpha < 0.05 between mean concentration of AF in Longi (15.9 +/- 0.6 mu g/kg) and Wonder hot (5.8 +/- 0.3 mu g/kg) were determined. In conclusion, choosing the variety demonstrating the lowest AF concentration from various chili samples will assist in improving product quality. This preferred variety is Wonder Hot as described herein.