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Aflatoxin M₁ Determination: Mycotoxin Analysis for Food Safety

Is Aflatoxin M₁ Harmful?

Aflatoxin M₁ Determination: Mycotoxin Analysis for Food Safety

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.

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

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