Occurrence of Black Aspergilli and Ochratoxin A on Grapes in Italy
Author Information
Author(s): Lucchetta Gianluca, Bazzo Irene, Cortivo Gianluca, Dal Stringher Lisa, Bellotto Diego, Borgo Michele, Angelini Elisa
Primary Institution: CRA-VIT Centro di Ricerca per la Viticoltura
Hypothesis
The study aims to estimate the occurrence of ochratoxin A (OTA) in grapes from different Italian vine-growing environments and evaluate the correlation with OTA-producing fungi.
Conclusion
The study confirmed a high risk of OTA and fungal contamination in Southern Italy, particularly in very dry and hot years.
Supporting Evidence
- OTA was present in about 30% of the grape samples analyzed.
- The highest occurrence of OTA was found in Southern Italy, with 45% of samples contaminated.
- Statistical analyses showed significant differences in OTA contamination levels based on geographic origin.
- Environmental factors like humidity and temperature influenced the production of OTA by fungi.
- OTA concentration levels over the legal limit were found in 2.5% of the grape samples tested.
Takeaway
This study looked at grapes in Italy to see how much of a harmful substance called ochratoxin A was present and found that grapes from Southern Italy had the most contamination.
Methodology
Grapes were collected from 23 vineyards across four Italian regions over five years, and both OTA content and fungal contamination were analyzed using immunoassay and mycological methods.
Limitations
The study focused only on grapes from specific regions and years, which may not represent all grape varieties or conditions.
Participant Demographics
Grapes were collected from various vineyards in Northern, Central, and Southern Italy, including different grape varieties.
Statistical Information
P-Value
0.0063 for A. carbonarius
Statistical Significance
p<0.05
Digital Object Identifier (DOI)
Want to read the original?
Access the complete publication on the publisher's website