Determination of Aflatoxin Levels in the Feed and Milk of Şavak Akkaraman Sheep: An Evaluation in Terms of Public Health
DOI:
https://doi.org/10.24925/turjaf.v13i12.4034-4040.7856Keywords:
Aflatoxin B1, Aflatoxin M1, Feed, Milk, Şavak Akkaraman SheepAbstract
The Şavak Akkaraman sheep is a native breed raised in the regions of Erzincan, Elazığ, and Tunceli, and it plays a significant role in milk and traditional tulum cheese production. Mycotoxins are secondary harmful metabolites produced by fungi commonly found in grains and stored feeds. When animals consume feed contaminated with these toxins, they can be metabolized in the body. Aflatoxins, particularly those produced by Aspergillus flavus and Aspergillus parasiticus, are among the most significant mycotoxins. The most hazardous aflatoxins in terms of health are aflatoxin B1 (AFB1), commonly found in feedstuffs, and its milk-excreted metabolite, aflatoxin M1 (AFM1). Mycotoxin exposure is not limited to contaminated plant-based products; it can also occur through animal-derived foods such as meat, milk, and eggs from animals fed contaminated feed. In this study, AFB1 levels in total mixed rations and AFM1 levels in the milk of Şavak Akkaraman Sheep were investigated in samples collected from 7 different farms within the scope of the Şavak Akkaraman Sheep Public Breeding Projects in Elazig Province. None of the 7 milk samples tested positive for AFM1. AFB1 concentrations in feed samples from farms 2, 6, and 7 were determined as 0.0008, 0.0009, and 0.001 ppm, respectively. Aflatoxin B2 (AFB2), aflatoxin G1 (AFG1), and aflatoxin G2 (AFG2) were not detected in any of the feed samples. AFB1 and total aflatoxin levels ranged between 0.0008 ppm and 0.001 ppm. AFB1 concentrations in feed were below the maximum limits set by the Communiqué on Undesirable Substances in Animal Feed. Similarly, the milk samples complied with the Turkish Food Codex Contaminants Regulation. in terms of AFM1 levels. In conclusion, AFB1 levels in feed and AFM1 levels in sheep milk were found to be below legal limits, highlighting the importance of routine aflatoxin monitoring and proper feed storage conditions to protect both animal and public health.
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