Publications

Aflatoxins, particularly aflatoxin B1, are among the most potent chemical contaminants. The 22 member states of the Arab League are exposed to this toxin through various sources, mainly via cereals due to their importance in local diets. This study aimed to collect and synthesize analytical data on aflatoxin B1 contamination in three major cereals (rice, maize, and wheat) available in Arab countries, to develop a regional exposure profile and to conduct a risk assessment. The occurrence data was extracted from scientific studies carried out in the region following a data mining methodology and subsequent meta-analysis. Based on the data analyzed from the 35 published scientific studies, the pooled mean concentrations of aflatoxin B1 under lower and upper bound scenarios were estimated between 0.44 and 0.57 ng/g for rice, 1.32 and 1.64 ng/g for maize, and 0.55 and 0.67 ng/g for wheat, respectively. Consumption data from the Food and Agriculture Organization Corporate Statistical Database was used to calculate the estimated daily intake. The regional pooled mean concentration was used to fill country-specific data gaps. The resulting Margin of Exposure values under both scenarios were all below 1200 for each cereal, indicating a possible public health concern. The regional risk of hepatocellular carcinoma was estimated, with values ranging from 0.058 to 0.095 cases per 100,000 persons. The highest risks were observed in Egypt and Iraq. This study provides regulatory authorities a valuable risk characterization of aflatoxin B1 exposure through cereals, providing evidence to support public health protection and guide prioritization of safety programs in the region.