Aflatoxin M₁ Determination: for Food Safety

Is Aflatoxin M₁ Harmful?

What is Aflatoxin M₁?

AFM₁ is a derivative resulting from the metabolism of aflatoxin B₁ (AFB₁). When animals consume feed contaminated with AFB₁, this toxin is converted to AFM₁ in the liver and passes into milk and thus into dairy products.

Chemical Structure: AFM₁ is a highly stable compound structurally similar to AFB₁. Since it is heat resistant, it cannot be completely destroyed by processes such as pasteurization.
Sources of Contamination:

Dairy products such as milk, cheese, yogurt, butter.
Animal feed

What are the Health Effects of AFM₁?

AFM₁ is classified as a Group 1B carcinogen by the International Agency for Research on Cancer (IARC). Here are its main health effects:

Carcinogenic Effects: Increases the risk of liver cancer in particular. Even long-term low dose exposure can cause cancer.
Toxic Effects: Suppresses the immune system. May cause liver damage.
Growth Retardation in Children: The presence of AFM₁ in children's milk consumption may cause growth retardation.
Acute Poisoning: Exposure to high amounts of aflatoxin can lead to liver failure and death.

Aflotoxin Analysis Foods to be Performed are Generally the following:

Groundnut
Tree nuts
Egypt
Rice
Figs and other dried foods
Spices
Crude vegetable oils
Cocoa beans

What are the Legal Limits for AFM₁?

Many countries have set legal limits for AFM₁ contamination:

European Union:

In infant and children's food: 0.025 µg/L.
In milk and milk products: 0.05 µg/L.

Turkey:

The Turkish Food Codex applies limits in line with EU standards.

USA:

FDA sets a limit of 0.5 µg/L in milk and dairy products.

Aflatoxin M₁ is an important mycotoxin for food safety and can pose serious risks to public health. Modern methods of analysis allow for the sensitive and reliable detection of AFM₁. AFM₁ contamination can be minimized by ensuring strict control and supervision at all stages, from production to the consumer. Regular analysis and good agricultural practices are critical for a healthy food chain.

Nanolab Laboratories Group continues to provide services within the scope of Aflatoxin M₁ Determination. We also provide services in Mycotoxin Analysis.

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