Thin layer chromatographic determination of aflatoxin B1 in eggs: collaborative study

Area of Science:

• Food Science
• Analytical Chemistry
• Mycotoxicology

Background:

• Aflatoxin B1 is a potent carcinogen commonly found in food.
• Accurate detection methods are crucial for food safety and regulatory compliance.

Purpose of the Study:

• To collaboratively study and validate the Trucksess et al. thin layer chromatographic method for quantifying aflatoxin B1 in eggs.
• To assess the method's accuracy, precision, and reliability across different concentration levels.

Main Methods:

• Collaborative study involving 9 laboratories analyzing egg samples.
• Samples included known practice samples and unknown samples with spiked aflatoxin B1 levels (0, 0.05, 0.10, 0.30 ng/g).
• Analysis performed using thin layer chromatography (TLC).

Main Results:

• Average recoveries for spiked aflatoxin B1 levels were 98% (0 ng/g), 102% (0.05 ng/g), and 93% (0.10 ng/g).
• Coefficients of variation (C.V.) ranged from 31% to 83%, with lower C.V. at higher concentrations.
• The method demonstrated acceptable performance for aflatoxin B1 determination in eggs.

Conclusions:

• The thin layer chromatographic method is suitable for the determination of aflatoxin B1 in eggs.
• The method has been adopted as an official first action method, indicating its reliability for regulatory purposes.