Evaluation of the risk of Aflatoxin M1 contamination in bovine milk for human consumption in Romagna, Italy

Aflatoxins are mycotoxins produced by Aspergillus species, especially A. flavus, A. parasiticus and A. nomius, which are abundant in areas where there is a hot humid climate. Aflatoxin M-1 (AM(1)) is a hydroxylated metabolite of Aflatoxin B-1 (AB(1)) that can occur in milk and milk products from animals consuming feed contaminated with B Aflatoxins. Human exposure to AM(1) at levels of nanograms per day occurs mainly through consumption of aflatoxin-contaminated milk. Aflatoxins are carcinogenic. The Commission Regulation (EC) no 1881 of 19 December 2006 sets maximum levels for certain contaminants in foodstuffs. The annex shows that the maximum level for AM(1) in raw milk, heat-treated milk as well as milk for the manufacture of milk based products is 0,050 mu g/kg (50 ppt). The aim of this paper is to present the results of AM(1) detection in tank cow milk samples collected from farms based in Romagna (Italy). This milk is destined for human consumption. From January 2011 to December 2014 (four years), 1728 raw cow milk samples were collected from 68 farms in Romagna (Rimini, Forli-Cesena, Ravenna). In order to analyze these milk samples at IZSLER laboratory, a commercial ELISA kit "I'SCREEN AFLA M-1" was used for screening AM(1) concentration in milk. Data referred to that period show that the range of values mainly represented is 5-25 ppt (62%), under law maximum level. In decreasing order, it is followed by the range < 5 ppt (32%), then 26-50 ppt (5%) and lastly > 50 ppt (about 1%). Over the four-year period, the 15 samples (about 1%) exceeding law maximum level were detected in the second half of the year (10 samples from July to December), while 5 were found in the first half of the year. These data show a good level of health safety for the consumer. Continuous monitoring is necessary to limit positive cases. Continuous sampling can monitor the concentration of AM1, thus helping to manage any emergency that might arise.