A critical review published in Toxins (Basel), led by Kasongo and co-authors, synthesizes more than a decade of data on mycotoxin contamination in food and feed across the Democratic Republic of the Congo and neighboring Central African countries. The authors document recurring contamination by aflatoxins, fumonisins, and ochratoxin A in staples including maize, groundnuts, and cassava products, with hot, humid storage conditions and limited grain drying infrastructure identified as the dominant drivers.
The review highlights significant testing gaps — most countries in the region lack routine surveillance programs — and notes that exposure estimates likely understate the true dietary burden. The authors outline a path forward centered on improved post-harvest handling, regional reference labs, and harmonized regulatory limits, framing mycotoxin control as both a food safety and public health priority.