Aflatoxin M ₁ and B ₁ in Colombian milk powder and estimated risk exposure

Abstract

Aflatoxin M₁ (AFM₁) and aflatoxin B₁ (AFB₁) were determined in 51 milk powder samples purchased from different grocery stores located in the Caribbean region of Colombia. Analysis was conducted using QuEChERS extraction and high-performance liquid chromatography with fluorescence detection. Results from the analytical method showed recovery ranges from 65% to 110% and relative standard deviations lower than 20%. AFM₁ was detected in 100% of the milk samples (0.20-1.19 µg/kg) and 55% exceeded the maximum level in milk (0.5 µg/kg) set by the Colombian and European regulations. AFB₁ was not detected in any of the analysed samples. Considering the measured contamination the maximum AFM₁ level that can be ingested by consumption of milk powder is 0.007-0.013 µg/person/day. These values are above the average dietary intake estimated in Latin America according to the Joint FAO/WHO Expert Committee, which is 0.0035 µg/person/day.