Prevalence of Aflatoxin Bx in FeedstufFs in Northern Iran

Mycotoxins are fungal toxins of which aflatoxins are the most important. By consuming aflatoxin B, (AFBj) by milk-cattle, AFMj is transferred through milk and products to human. Due to its carcinogenic effects on liver, immunosuppression and growth, it is potentially dangerous to humans. In summer 2008 and winter 2009, 384 feedstuff samples (such as concentrated, beetroot refuse, wheat bran and cottonseed refuse) were collected at cattle farms located in villages in Mazandaran province, northern Iran. In eveiy season 192 samples and of each feedstuff 48 samples were selected. AFB[ were tested by competitive ELISA. In summer, of feedstuff taken from Sari, Babol, Chalos and Tonekabon 22.9, 31.3, 25 and 29.2% were positive (more than 5 jug/kg AFBL), respectively. In general, of 192 samples, 52(27.1%) were positive (max=l 1, min=l, mean=3.83). Whereas in winter, 39.6, 45.8, 47.9 and 33.3% were positive, respectively and in general, of 192 samples, 82(42.7%) were positive(max=l 4, min=0.4, mean=5.09). In northern Iran due to favorable aflatoxigenic moulds growth, especially in cold seasons, some measures should be taken in production, processing and storage of feedstuffs. There was a significant relationship between AFB[ contamination level and kind food and seasons applying statistical test.