Study on Fumonisin Contents of Maize Sampled From Dawanau Grains Market in Kano

A study was carried out on the Aflatoxin content of maize sourced from Dawanau grains market in Kano. A total of 25 maize samples were collected and subjected to moisture content determination, moulds isolation as well as aflatoxin extraction which were followed by the analysis of the toxin. Of the 25 maize samples 9 (36%), 6 (24%), 19 (76%), 7 (28%), 4 (16%), 8 (32%), 2 (8%) and 4 (8%) yielded A. flavus, A. parasiticus, Fusarium, A. niger, Penicillium, Mucor, NigrosporaandTrichodermarespectively. Analysis of the extracts using thin layer chromatography yielded blue and blue green fluorescence on the TLC plate after U.V light illumination withRf values which ranged between 0.40 – 0.65. Analysis of the extracts using ELISA kit showed the aflatoxin content of the maize to be in the range of 22.05 – 44.56. The study stressed the need for public enlightenment on the dangers and potential hazards associated with the consumption of mycotoxins.