Fungal Diversity and Aflatoxin Profile in Camellia sinensis: An In-Depth Analysis of Mycological and Mycotoxicological Aspects

Abstract

Camellia sinensis tea, is the second most consumed beverage in the world however, it is contaminated with aflatoxins resulting in adverse health effects. This study was aimed at determining the fungal diversity and aflatoxins levels in black Camellia sinensis tea retailed in Kericho, Kisii, and Bomet counties in Kenya. A cross-sectional study was conducted and 100 tea samples were collected from informal retail outlets. Fungal contamination was determined and aflatoxin screening was carried out. Aflatoxin analysis was carried out using an ELISA-based assay according to the manufacturer’s instructions and read using a TECAN Infinite f50 ELISA reader.  In 311 different isolates, Aspergillus niger 34% (106) was the most isolated fungus from black C. sinensis (black) tea samples, followed closely by Aspergillus flavus 26% (81), Aspergillus fumigatus 16% (50), A. versicolor 7% (22), A. nidulans 5.79% (18), Penicillium spp. 3.5% (11) and Paeleocimyces spp. 2.89% (9)., Rhizopus spp. 2% (7), Fusarium 1.6%(5), and Cladosporium spp. 0.6%% (2). Pearson correlation showed a significantly negative and insignificant correlation between fungal contamination and aflatoxins levels (r= -.021, P=.837). This poses a significant health risk due to the carcinogenic nature of aflatoxins, emphasizing the need for stringent quality control measures in the food  chain.