CONTROL OF AFLATOXIN-PRODUCING MOULDS IN DRIED COW-SKIN HIDE (PONMO IJEBU) USING CATNIP LEAF EXTRACT
Keywords:
Aflatoxin, Cow skin hide, Antimicrobial agentAbstract
The use of plant extracts as antimicrobial agents has continually gained recognition because of their effectiveness. The study investigated catnip leaf extracts as an antifungal agent against aflatoxin-producing fungi isolated from cow skin (Ponmo). A total of 10 samples were purchased from 5 different open market sources in Abeokuta. Fungal and bacterial isolation were carried out using standard microbiological procedures. Aflatoxin quantification was done on Ponmo samples using High Performance Liquid Chromatography (HPLC). Methanolic extraction of catnip leaves was stored at room temperature till it was ready for use. Antifungal activities were carried out by the well diffusion method. Catnip leaf extract was introduced into the well-bore into plates of fungal species. Aspergillus niger 8.9%, Aspergillus nomius 35% and Aspergillus flavus 50.6%, were the fungi species found on Ponmo Ijebu. Aspergillus flavus has the most prevalent occurrence of 50.6%. The bacteria isolates from the sample include: Staphylococcus, Steptococcus, and Micrococcus. This study revealed that cow-skin hide sold at the Camp area of Abeokuta had the highest total aflatoxin load of 11µg/kg, which poses a great threat to the health of the consumers. The zone of inhibition, which ranged from 10 mm to 14 mm, was measured. This shows the efficacy of catnip to inhibit aflatoxigenic fungi in cow-skin hide during processing and storage, raising concerns about food safety and a need to find a control method. Therefore, it is advisable to educate consumers on proper hygiene practices during the cow skin drying process to mitigate fungal growth.
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