An effective self-control strategy for the reduction of aflatoxin M1 content in milk and to decrease the exposure of...

Area of Science:

• Food Safety
• Mycotoxicology
• Public Health

Background:

• Aflatoxin M1 (AFM1) is a toxic metabolite found in milk, posing a risk to human health.
• Effective monitoring systems are crucial for managing AFM1 contamination in dairy products.

Purpose of the Study:

• To evaluate the sensitivity of an early warning sampling plan for detecting high AFM1 concentrations in milk.
• To assess the impact of different action limits (AL) on AFM1 contamination levels.
• To estimate dietary exposure and associated health risks for various population groups.

Main Methods:

• Analysis of 9017 milk samples from Italian processing plants with varying AFM1 action limits (30 ng/kg vs. 40 ng/kg).
• Statistical comparison of AFM1 contamination levels based on applied action limits.
• Calculation of Estimated Daily Intakes (EDI) and Hazard Indices (HI) using milk contamination data and Italian food consumption patterns.

Main Results:

• Plants using a 30 ng/kg AL exhibited significantly lower AFM1 contamination at the 95th percentile compared to those using a 40 ng/kg AL.
• The early warning control plan proved effective in identifying and managing high AFM1 contamination.
• Hazard Indices indicated no adverse effects for adults, but considerably higher risks for children under three years old.

Conclusions:

• The early warning sampling plan is a valuable tool for proactive management of AFM1 in milk.
• Lowering action limits for AFM1 is effective in reducing milk contamination.
• Continuous monitoring and control of AFM1 in milk and dairy products are essential, particularly for protecting vulnerable populations like young children.