Abstract:
Fumonisin is the second most commonly isolated mycotoxin in maize, produced mainly by
Fusarium verticillioides. Fumonisins are associated with health effects in humans and
animals. We reviewed the available literature on fumonisin contamination of maize in Sub Saharan Africa (SSA) and the Fusarium species linked to the contamination. We searched
for articles in Science Direct, PUBMED, and Google Scholar databases in June 2018 and
updated in August 2018. We employed narrative synthesis in data synthesis. Out of the 2,156
records obtained from the search, 39 met the inclusion criteria. Of the included studies, 37
were cross-sectional studies, while two were controlled trials. Fourteen of the included
studies were based on South Africa. The Fusarium species predominantly responsible for
fumonisin production was Fusarium verticillioides. Other notable Fusarium species
included F. proliferatum and F. graminaerum. In 13 studies, all samples tested positive for
fumonisins. The levels of Fumonisin varied from one country to another and region to
another in the same country. With maize fumonisin contamination reported in several SSA
countries, there is a higher risk of human exposure and hence, health effects on individuals
