PRESENCE OF MYCOTOXINS IN MALTING BARLEY (Hordeum distichum L.) AND ITS RELATIONSHIP WITH CONTAMINATING FUNGI

Abstract

The study focuses on the identification and quantification of mycotoxins in malting barley used as feed for cattle raised at the facilities of Agro Biológicos de Panamá, a company located in Hato de San Juan de Dios, in the district of Aguadulce, Coclé province. Culture tests were conducted with four types of malting barley samples: dry seed, pre-disinfected seed, leachate, and forage. Microscopic cultures of forage grass were also performed. The fungi were categorized as storage fungi. Genera and species that produce mycotoxins, such as aflatoxins and ochratoxins, were identified, with the genera Aspergillus sp. and Penicillium sp. being the most prominent in both samples analyzed. The genus Trichoderma sp. was also identified. Furthermore, an evaluation of aflatoxin levels was conducted before and after implementing additional prevention, control, and growth factor management measures, including temperature, humidity, and oxygen levels, demonstrating that the treatment was effective, as the levels detected did not exceed the limits permitted in Panama. These studies suggest that constant monitoring of these measures ensures progress in the right direction, maintaining minimal or nonexistent levels of mycotoxins.