What effect does temperature have on peanut storage?

Higher temperatures significantly affect peanut storage by increasing the risk of spoilage and aflatoxin growth. Peanuts are susceptible to mold and fungal development, particularly the mold Aspergillus flavus, which produces aflatoxins—potentially harmful carcinogenic compounds. When peanuts are stored at elevated temperatures, the likelihood of mold growth escalates, leading to both spoilage and health risks.

Proper storage conditions, ideally cool and dry environments, are crucial for extending the shelf life of peanuts and ensuring their quality. By maintaining lower temperatures, the biochemical processes that lead to spoilage are slowed down, significantly reducing the risk of aflatoxin contamination. This makes understanding and managing temperature a vital aspect of peanut storage for food safety and quality assurance.