Property Characterization of Peanut Kernels Subjected to Gamma Irradiation and Its Effect on the Outgrowth and Aflatoxin Production by Aspergillus parasiticus

Peanut kernels inoculated with Aspergillus parasiticus conidia and uninoculated kernels were gamma irradiated with 0 to 15 kGy using 60 Co. Levels of 2.5 and 5.0 KGy were effective in retarding the outgrowth of A. parasiticus and reducing the population of natural mold contaminants. However, elimination of these molds was not achieved. When irradiated with doses higher than 10 KGy, seed germinations were inhibited, changes in proteins were observed and oil stabilities decreased. After 4 wk incubation of the inoculated kernels in a humidified condition, aflatoxins produced by surviving A. parasiticus ranged from 69.12 to 13.48 μg/g depending upon the original irradiation dose.