Seasonal prevalence level of aflatoxin M1 and its estimated daily intake in Pakistan

- Aflatoxin M1 was found positive in 93% milk samples.
- It was found that 53% samples exceeded the limits established by Europen Union.
- The EDI of aflatoxin M1 from milk consumption was found 0.22-5.45 ng/kg/day.
- Infants and older people are prone to higher risk from aflatoxin M1.

Aflatoxin M1 level was measured in 520 milk samples during autumn, winter, spring and summer seasons of 2013-14 in five districts of Southern Punjab-Pakistan. Analyses were performed by using enzyme linked immuno sorbent assay (ELISA) method. Aflatoxin M1 was found positive in 93% milk samples in the range of 0.001-0.26 μg/l while 53% samples were found to exceed the European Union maximum Limit for aflatoxins M1 i.e. 0.05 μg/l. The seasonal prevalence level of AFM1 was found in the order of winter > spring > autumn > summer. Comparing the aflatoxin M1 level during different day times, morning milk was found 37-50% more contaminated than evening milk. The estimated daily intake (EDI) of aflatoxins M1 during different seasons of year for various age groups was found in the range of 0.22-5.45 ng/kg/day. Infants were found in the highest risk group while adults were in the lowest. The results of the study indicate that people of Pakistan are at high risk of health issues related with aflatoxins M1.