The recent peanut butter recalls have caused much discussion in the industry regarding aflatoxins – primarily aflatoxins B and G, as these are the toxic compounds produced by fungi such as Aspergillus.
However, there is another type of aflatoxin to be aware of: aflatoxin M1. This compound forms in the livers of mammals that have fed on aflatoxin-contaminated feed, and is then excreted into mammalian milk, putting dairy products at risk.
Local regulations (R. 1145 of 2004) set a maximum limit for aflatoxin M1 in milk (0.05 µg/l) to safeguard public health. However, it is interesting to note that R. 1145 does not provide a specific limit for infant formulae and follow-on formulae. EU regulations set a limit of 0.025 µg /kg aflatoxin M1 in infant formulae – half of the limit set for milk – which is important, considering that infants are especially vulnerable to aflatoxin M1 contamination.
In the absence of local regulations, good manufacturing practices (GMP) are recommended. Food producers should be aware of this contamination risk and look to international regulations for guidance when interpreting test results.
For more information on hidden contamination risks, contact us.
