Reducing maize-based aflatoxin contamination and exposure in Zimbabwe - Policy Brief
Date
2020-02-10
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Abstract
This project used a randomized control trial to test the efficacy of two technologies – metal silos and thick plastic hermetic ‘super bags’ – against the use of conventional storage methods (polypropylene bags and mud huts) to reduce post-harvest losses and aflatoxin contamination of grain. Results indicated a lower occurrence and concentration of aflatoxin M1 in urine samples of women and children from households using the hermetic technology for grain storage. Results analysis also concludes that these methods reduced economic losses due to insect damage. Awareness of aflatoxins and their associated health risks increased among women from 36% (2015) to 99% (2016).
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Policy Brief
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Keywords
AFLATOXINS, FUNGI, POSTHARVEST LOSSES, TOXINS, GRAIN STORAGE, MAIZE, CHILD HEALTH, NUTRITION, WOMEN’S HEALTH, ZIMBABWE, SOUTH OF SAHARA