Determination of Aflatoxin B1 in Food and Feed: Types and Effects

What is Aflotoxin? What are the Types?

Aflotoxins are secondary metabolites of fungi such as Aspergillus flavus and A. Parasiticus. The most important of these aflotoxins, which are harmful to human health, can be listed as Aflotoxin B1, Aflotoxin B2, Aflotoxin G1, Aflotoxin G2. It can be found in grain products such as rice, peanuts, corn flour and soybean flour.

Aflotoxin B1 and its effects

It is a mycotoxin that is mostly found in tropical and subtropical climate zones, wetlands and high temperatures and can contaminate foods such as grains and cereals, leading to human and animal exposure. Aflotoxin B1 (AFB1) is low in molecular weight, chemically stable and resistant to thermal treatments such as autoclaving, boiling, cooking and fermentation.

Aflotoxin B1 contaminated in food and feed threatens human and animal health. Aflotoxin B1 toxicity can range from affecting the immune system to induction of teratogenic, mutagenic and carcinogenic activities classified as carcinogenic (Group 1) by IARC (International Agency for Research on Cancer). It can be taken directly with food, as well as animals with animal feed and meat, milk and dairy products, eggs and humans.

Aflotoxin B1 Analysis

With Aflotoxin B1 analysis in foods and feeds, food safety, compliance with relevant regulations and laws, and the status of production areas can be kept under control. Aflotoxins are potent toxins for humans and animals. 1 to 10 mg/kg body weight is a lethal dose. It is therefore important to analyze them in food and feed.

AFB1 detection is required to monitor the maximum residue level in food and feed. In the European Union, the maximum levels for aflatoxin B1 and total aflatoxin (aflatoxin B1 + G1 + B2 + G2) in a range of foods are set by “Commission Regulation (EC) No 1881/2006, December 19, 2006” and updated “EU Commission Regulation No 165/2010”.

As Nanolab Laboratories Group, we serve with our expert and authorized team on Aflatoxin B1 Analysis in Foods and Feeds. You can also read our article on Aflatoxin Detection in Cheese.

For more information, visit our website: https://www.nano-lab.com.tr/

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