Aflatoxin B₁ in peanuts and peanut butter in Kosovo and human health risk

Aflatoxin B1 (AFB1), a toxic metabolite produced by Aspergillus species, poses significant public health risks due to its carcinogenic and immunosuppressive effects. A total of 107 peanut and 18 peanut butter samples were collected from major retailers and analysed, using a validated ELISA method. Risk characterisation was performed through dietary exposure estimation and calculation of the margin of exposure (MOE). Although the concentration ranges overlapped, the proportion exceeding the EU maximum limit (2.0 µg/kg) was higher in peanuts (56/107; 52%) than in peanut butter (1/18; 5.6%). Samples packaged in Kosovo, despite varying origins, showed nearly 50% non-compliance. A substantial share of samples exceeded the EU maximum limit, rendering these lots non-compliant and unsuitable for consumption. Enhanced regulatory enforcement, routine monitoring, and improved post-import management are essential to mitigate chronic AFB1 risks and align Kosovo's food safety framework with international standards.