Aflatoxin M1 Contamination in Dairy Milk in Kathmandu, Nepal
Sujan Kafle1,2, Madhav Paudel1, Chanda Shrestha3
1Faculty of Animal Science, Veterinary Science and Fisheries, Agriculture and Forestry University (AFU), Chitwan 44200, Nepal.
Toxins
|November 26, 2024
Summary
Aflatoxin M1 (AFM1) contamination is widespread in Nepal
Area of Science:
- Food Safety
- Mycotoxicology
- Public Health
Background:
- Aflatoxins (AFs) are toxic fungal metabolites with significant health risks.
- Tropical climates, like Nepal's, foster fungal growth, increasing AFs in animal feed and milk.
- Aflatoxin M1 (AFM1) is a specific AF found in milk.
Purpose of the Study:
- Investigate AFM1 occurrence in dairy milk from Nepal's Kathmandu District.
- Assess husbandry practices contributing to milk contamination.
- Evaluate AFM1 levels against European Union (EU) limits.
Main Methods:
- Collected 84 milk samples (farm, retail, packet).
- Analyzed samples using competitive enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (c-ELISA).
- Interviewed farmers on feeding and storage practices.
Main Results:
- All milk samples (100%) showed AFM1 contamination.
- 97.6% of samples exceeded the EU's maximum permissible AFM1 limit (50 ppt).
- Poor feed storage practices were common; paddy straw and concentrate were widely used.
Conclusions:
- High AFM1 contamination in Nepal's milk poses a serious public health risk.
- Urgent need for comprehensive surveillance and further research nationwide.
- Improved animal husbandry and feed storage practices are recommended.
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