An integrated approach to prevent ochratoxin a contamination in post-harvest processing of coffee in east Africa

Objective

Ochratoxin A (OTA) is caused by mould growth in many food products and is nephrotoxic and possibly carcinogen to humans. It occurs in many food types including coffee. There is generally inadequate information about its production in coffee and how the problem should be addressed. This results mainly from a lack of knowledge of the complex microbiota in the coffee environment and the lack of effective quality systems in the producing countries. The objective of this project is to introduce the concepts of GMP and HACCP in combination with the use of protective cultures for biocontrol, especially lactic acid bacteria or yeasts that can inactivate or inhibit the growth of OTA producing moulds during coffee processing.

Programme(s)

• FP5-INCO 2 - Programme for research, technological development and demonstration on "Confirming the international role of Community research,1998-2002"

Topic(s)

• 1.2.1.-1.4. - Research for development

Funding Scheme

Coordinator

Participants (5)