Exopolysaccharide Film Coating and Antagonistic Yeast Combination for the Prevention of Aflatoxin Formation in Red Pepper

Abstract Background Aflatoxin contamination in red pepper during post-harvest processes poses a severe threat to food safety. Objectives This study aims to develop a novel biological control strategy by investigating the efficacy of exopolysaccharide (EPS) film coatings combined with the antagonistic yeast Williopsis saturnus var. saturnus to reduce aflatoxin accumulation. Methods Red pepper samples were coated with EPS films, with and without W. saturnus , and stored under controlled conditions. Aflatoxin levels (aflatoxin B 1 (AFB 1 ) and total aflatoxin (AF)) were quantified using a validated high-performance liquid chromatography (HPLC) method and modeled using the Gompertz model. Model parameters were evaluated using K-means clustering and Silhouette methods. Results The addition of W. saturnus to the EPS film significantly reduced the rate of aflatoxin accumulation, particularly under unfavorable (inoculated) storage conditions. This inhibitory effect on growth kinetics was statistically significant and consistent for both total AF and AFB 1 . Conclusion The combined application of EPS film and W. saturnus provides an effective biological barrier against aflatoxin accumulation. Significance This approach offers an eco-friendly and cost-effective alternative to chemical methods for mycotoxin control in red pepper and other valuable agricultural products.