Verification of the Accuscan gold reader and RIDA smart phone application rapid test kits in detection and quantification of aflatoxin levels in maize from selected regions in Kenya

The study aimed to verify the effectiveness of two detection kits namely, Accuscan gold reader and RIDA total aflatoxin smart phone application in assessing levels of aflatoxins’ contamination in maize. Three regions of Kenya were selected namely, Kisumu, Makueni and Kilifi. Confirmatory tests were done using liquid chromatography tandem mass spectrometry (LC-MS/MS). The Accuscan gold reader showed mean aflatoxin levels of 14.52, 5.18, and 3.04 μg/kg and RIDA smart phone application had levels of 26.08, 26.68, and 4.05 μg/kg for Kilifi, Makueni, and Kisumu, respectively. The LC-MS/MS confirmed the presence of AFB1 and AFB2 with AFB1 of 97.5 μg/kg in Makueni and 76.2 μg/kg in Kilifi. Maize from Kilifi and Makueni was contaminated and unfit for human and animal consumption. Also, low rainfall, high temperature and high relative humidity directly increased the levels of aflatoxins, resulting in contamination. Therefore, the detection kits are recommended for use by maize farmers. Confirmatory tests should be done with maize having levels of aflatoxin above 10 μg/kg. Adequate drying and handling of maize and proper storage with good aeration should be ensured.