The 1977 Corn-Aflatoxin Epiphytotic in Alabama

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Abstract
A prolonged drought and severe fall armyworm [Spodoptera frugiperda] infestation were probable factors resulting in the high level of aflatoxin B1 [from Aspergillus flavus] contamination in the 1977 Alabama corn crop. Of 2489 samples tested 1 Aug.-31 Dec. 1977, 63% exceeded the guideline for aflatoxin of 20 ppb set by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration. The percentages of samples exceeding 20 ppb in south, central and north Alabama were 82, 54 and 48%, respectively. The corresponding percentage below normal rainfall for the 3 geographical regions were 45, 22 and 16%, respectively.