# Assessing aflatoxin exposure risk from imported nuts in the Jordan market

## TL;DR

This study found that 13% of imported nuts in Jordan are contaminated with aflatoxins, posing a potential health risk to consumers.

## Contribution

The study provides new data on aflatoxin contamination in Jordan's nut market and evaluates associated health risks using EDI and MOE.

## Key findings

- 25 (13%) nut samples contained aflatoxins above the quantification limit.
- Pistachios showed the highest contamination rate.
- All MOE values were below the safety threshold of 10,000, indicating a potential health risk.

## Abstract

This study assessed the contamination levels and health risk of aflatoxins in nuts from the markets in Jordan. A total of 180 nut samples (pistachios, almonds, walnuts, and cashews) were analyzed using high-performance liquid chromatography (HPLC) following immunoaffinity column clean-up and QuEChERS extraction. Aflatoxins were detected in 13 % of the samples, with pistachios showing the highest contamination rate. The Estimated Daily Intake (EDI) and Margin of Exposure (MOE) were calculated using deterministic risk assessment methods, based on the mean contamination levels and average nut consumption patterns in Jordan. All MOE values were below the safety threshold of 10,000, indicating a potential health risk. These findings emphasize the need for strengthened monitoring programs and regulatory actions to ensure food safety and minimize the public health risk.

•25 (13 %) nut samples contain aflatoxins above the quantification limit.•Pistachio samples showing the highest contamination rate.•The Estimated Daily Intake (EDI) and Margin of Exposure (MOE) were calculated.•All MOE values were below the safety threshold of 10,000.

25 (13 %) nut samples contain aflatoxins above the quantification limit.

Pistachio samples showing the highest contamination rate.

The Estimated Daily Intake (EDI) and Margin of Exposure (MOE) were calculated.

All MOE values were below the safety threshold of 10,000.