Ochratoxin A in black pepper, white pepper and clove sold in Yaound (Cameroon) markets: contamination levels and consumers practices increasing health risk

Background: Spices are widely consumed in Cameroon, but there is no data available concerning their mycotoxin contamination. A cross-sectional study was conducted from February to June 2017 to assess the occurrence of Ochratoxin A (OTA) in black pepper, white pepper and clove sold in three main markets of Yaoundé (the capital of Cameroon), and the health risk that can be associated taking into account consumers’ practices during and after purchase. Results: Data obtained revealed that 10% of...