Aflatoxin M1 in Milk of Cow in Relation to Lactation Period and Yields

Abstract

Aflatoxin produced from few molds as Aspergillus flavus, A. parasiticus and A. nomius is highly carcinogenic, mutagenic to the animals and humans. These molds are present in the dietary intake of cattle feed. Present investigation was performed to observe the carryover of AFB₁ to the milk toxin of lactating cows. Cows during early lactation stage yields more milk compared to late lactating stage, hence, the same cows were used to keep the variable of physiology of cows as nearly constant. AFM₁ concentration was found independent to the intake of AFB₁ with the compound foods ingested by cows. Carryover of aflatoxin was observed comparatively less in case of cows of late lactation stage. With the yield of milk per day (milking twice), the carryover rate also varied. AFM₁ concentration was observed within the limit as set by EU. Frequent evaluation and testing of milk is necessary.