Rapid diagnostic testing of toxigenic microfungi isolated from foodstuffs

Abstract

The aim of this study was to experimentally test chromogenic media and reagents for a rapid diagnosis of toxigenic microfungi Aspergillus flavus, A. carbonarius, A. ochraceus, Penicillium expansum, P. verrucosum, and P. citrinum isolated from foodstuffs. Toxigenic microfungi of Aspergillus and Penicillium species are considered to be of major relevance for human and animal health. The presence of these toxigenic microfungi in foodstuffs and feedstuffs raises a potential risk of mycotoxins (for example presence of aflatoxins, cyclopiazonic acid, ochratoxin A, patulin or citrinin). In order to reduce the risks for consumers’ health, it is necessary to set rapid methods for toxigenic microfungi isolated from foodstuffs and also feedstuffs. Application of chromogenic media and reagents presents one of the possibilities. The selected strains of toxigenic microfungi, producing mycotoxins, were tested on chromogenic media. The chromogenic media and reagents in our study are suitable for a microbiological and mycological laboratory. The benefits of chromogenic media and reagents include a rapid diagnosis within 48-72 h, simple preparation, easy availability and relatively low prices.