Maize and mycotoxins in the Ch’ortí’ region: a challenge to health and food sovereignty

Abstract

OBJECTIVE: to determine the presence of mycotoxins in maize grains (Zea mays L.) produced and consumed by farming families in Jocotán, Camotán, and San Juan Ermita, located in the Ch’ortí’ region of Chiquimula. METHOD: a simple random sampling method was applied, using official records of staple grain producers. The sample size was calculated with a 95% confidence level and 10% margin of error, selecting 96 households. Each household provided three samples taken at different stages: harvest (tapisca), storage, and consumption, resulting in a total of 288 samples. Collection techniques included field transects, grain sampling in granaries, sacks, and trojas, and sampling of cooked maize. Laboratory analyses were performed to detect aflatoxins, fumonisins, ochratoxin A, and deoxynivalenol. Additionally, structured surveys were used to document post-harvest management, storage, and maize preparation practices. RESULTS: one hundred percent of the samples tested positive for at least one mycotoxin. In Jocotán, average levels were: aflatoxins 10.79 ppb, fumonisins 5.25 ppm, ochratoxin A 1.80 ppb, and deoxynivalenol 0.07 ppm. In Camotán: aflatoxins 2.68 ppb, fumonisins 2.17 ppm, ochratoxin A 0.57 ppb, and deoxynivalenol 0.05 ppm. San Juan Ermita showed the highest concentrations of fumonisins (9.88 ppm), ochratoxin A (2.34 ppb), and deoxynivalenol (0.12 ppm). Inadequate storage conditions—particularly the use of sacks without prior drying—were strongly associated with higher contamination levels. CONCLUSION: the widespread presence of mycotoxins in maize consumed by rural households in the Ch’ortí’ region poses a direct threat to public health and food security. The high levels found, especially during storage, underscore the urgent need to strengthen local capacities in post-harvest handling and to establish community-based monitoring systems that reduce risks and preserve territorial food sovereignty.