Mycotoxin detection in infant formula milks in Italy

Area of Science:

• Food Science
• Analytical Chemistry
• Toxicology

Background:

• Infant formulas are a critical food source for newborns.
• Mycotoxin contamination in food poses significant health risks.
• Aflatoxin M1 (AFM1) and Ochratoxin A (OTA) are common foodborne mycotoxins.

Purpose of the Study:

• To survey the presence and levels of AFM1 and OTA in leading infant formula brands in Italy.
• To assess infant exposure to these mycotoxins based on detected levels.
• To identify potential risks associated with mycotoxin contamination in infant nutrition.

Main Methods:

• Immunoaffinity column clean-up was used for sample preparation.
• High-performance liquid chromatography (HPLC) with fluorescence detection was employed for mycotoxin quantification.
• 185 samples from 14 leading infant formula brands marketed in Italy were analyzed.

Main Results:

• AFM1 was detected in 2 samples, below the European limit of 25 ng/L.
• OTA was detected in 133 (72%) of the samples, with levels ranging from 35.1 to 689.5 ng/L.
• Ready-to-use formulas showed higher OTA contamination (80%) than powdered formulas (63%).
• OTA levels in preterm ready-to-use formulas exceeded the suggested tolerable daily intake (TDI).

Conclusions:

• While AFM1 levels were within safe limits, OTA contamination is a significant concern in infant formulas.
• The high prevalence and levels of OTA necessitate stricter controls and monitoring programs.
• Infant exposure to OTA, particularly through preterm formulas, may pose health risks requiring further investigation and risk management strategies.