Aflatoxin B₁ and zearalenone in soybeans: occurrence and distribution in whole and defective kernels

Few studies have addressed the distribution of mycotoxins in soybean and/or their processing fractions. In this study, samples from commercial lots were collected in four Brazilian states. The distribution of mycotoxins in soybean fractions, according to their commercial grading system, namely whole kernels (WK), split, broken and crushed kernels (SBCK), damaged kernels (DK), heat damaged and burned kernels (HDBK), moldy kernels (MK), greenish kernels (GK), foreign material + impurities (FMI), were analyzed using HPLC-FLD. AFB₁ and ZEN tested positive in 43.3 and 80%, respectively. The incidence of AFB₁ was higher in MK (50%), followed by HDBK (30.4%) and FMI (26.0%). ZEA incidence ranged from 69% (SBCK) to 100% (HDBK). Co-occurrence (53.3%) in at least one fraction was also detected. Brazil is the second world producer of soybeans, which places the country in a very important position. Therefore, the information provided is crucial and timely relevant for the industry and policymakers.