Survey of aflatoxin M₁ in milk and dairy products consumed in Burdur, Turkey

Abstract

The aim of this study was to investigate the occurrence of aflatoxin M 1 (AFM 1 ) in dairy product samples in Burdur city. A total of 315 samples of dairy products were collected during 2008. Of the 315 samples analysed, AFM 1 in 246 samples (78.1%) was found to range from 5.5 to 800 ng/kg. In addition, AFM 1 levels of 16 raw milk, two pasteurised milk, only one milk powder and three white cheese samples were above the Turkish Food Codex. It is concluded that the occurrence of AFM 1 in dairy products may be considered as a possible hazard for public health.