Bernard Lischer wrote:
> >
> I'm interrested in learning more about the nut/ aflatoxin issue.  I've
> always thought that peanuts and corn contain more aflatoxin on average than
> other nuts/ grains because they are much more likely to be stored under the
> conditions you mentioned.

Peanuts and corn are contaiminated before they leave the field.  They are most likly to be contaiminated during
periods when the crops are stressed such as droughts.  Artificial irrigation in hot dry climates only increases
levels.  According to the Wall Street Journal (July 29, 1998) "This year 62% of the Texas corn crop tested was
deemed unfit for human consumption because aflatoxin levels were above 20 parts per billion (some states set
the level at 5 ppb).  Although most of this rejected corn was below the 300 ppb allowed for animal feed,
surprisingly high numbers of samples were found to contain levels above 1000 ppb.

Makes one wonder how much wasn't tested!

See: http:www.aces.edu/department/grain/ANR767.htm
for the scientific stuff

See: Feb. 23, 1989 Wall Street Journal article "Corn Crop Peril" for the stories behind the numbers - if you
call 413-592-3600, Dow Jones will fax you this great 6500 word article in 10 minutes ( for $13:( - I don't
subscribe to their on-line service).

Ray Audette
Author "NeanderThin"