Determination of Aflatoxin M1 in Pasteurized Liquid and Powdered Milk Products Imported to Iran

Mycotoxins are the secondary metabolites of molds and have adverse effects on humans, animals, and crops, resulting in illnesses and economic losses. Aflatoxin M1 (AFM1) is a hepatocarcinogen found in the milk from animals that have consumed feeds contaminated with aflatoxin B1 (AFB1). Milk is a highly nutritious food and is a source of necessary macro- and micro-nutrients for the growth, development and maintenance of human health. Methods: The presence of AFM1 was investigated in 70 samples of imported pasteurized and powdered milk products available to the Iranian consumers. The level of AFM1 was determined by HPLC method equipped with immunoaffinity cleanup. Results: The results showed that 32% of the analyzed samples were positive for AFM1 at 0.05-3.31 μg/kg. Also, 16% of analyzed samples were positive for AFM1at concentrations higher than the limit permitted by the Iranian standards. Conclusion: The detection of AFM1 contamination in the analyzed samples indicates the importance of the health of animal feeds. Thus, monitoring the imported feed materials, especially those arriving at Iranian borders is crucial in the prevention of AFM1 and AFB1 contaminations spreading across the domestic market.