Int’l - GIPSA verifies rapid, accurate test for aflatoxin

In a move that could help the US grain market make more informed decisions about the grain being bought and sold, USDA Grain Inspection, Packers and Stockyards Administration (GIPSA) last week announced it verified a qualitative screening test kit for the detection of total aflatoxins. The screening test (the R-Biopharm Rhone Ltd. AFLACARD T20, Part #P57) is a qualitative enzyme immunoassay that detects the presence of aflatoxin at a threshold of 20 parts per billion in corn in 5 minutes, GIPSA said. The test was evaluated under GIPSA's Rapid Test Performance Evaluation Program. Aflatoxin is a mycotoxin produced by two types of mold: Aspergillus flavus and Aspergillus parasiticus. Aspergillus flavus is usually found when certain grains are grown under stressful conditions including drought. The mold occurs in soil, decaying vegetation, hay, and grains under favorable conditions. GIPSA tests corn, sorghum, wheat and soybeans for aflatoxin as official criteria under the United States Grain Standards Act (USGSA). Testing is also provided for rice, popcorn, corn meal, corn gluten meal, corn/soy blend, and other processed products governed by the Agricultural Marketing Act (AMA). All corn exported from the US is also required to be tested for the mycotoxin. Grain containing aflatoxin is toxic to livestock, especially to young animals and poultry. Sound agronomic practices such as properly storing and drying grain, maintaining grain quality, and sanitizing grain-handling equipment can minimize trouble.