The variability of citrinin production in Monascus type cultures

Monascus is a toxigenic genus of the order Eurotiales which like Penicillium and Aspergillus is capable of producing citrinin. Citrinin was investigated in type cultures of Monascus species by HPLC to test citrinin producing ability in the genus. Twenty-three Monascus type cultures representing eight species were studied. All these strains were found to produce citrinin in YES medium in quantities varying from 65 to 480 mg/l. The highest yield (480 mg/l) was from Monascus pallens IMI 356820, while the lowest (65 mg/l) was from M. ruber IFO 8201. The results of this study also revealed that the production of citrinin is independent of pigment production by Monascus species. It is suggested that safety measures should be taken when the pigments or other products from Monascus are utilized.