Aflatoxin B1 variations in animal feeds along the supply chain in Tanzania and its possible reduction by heat treatment

Abstract

ABSTRACT This study evaluated the presence of aflatoxin B1 in five different animal feeds collected from manufacturers, suppliers and consumers and its possible reduction by heating at 100°C for 180 min. A total of 160 animal feed samples were collected and analyzed by using lateral flow immunoassay method. The results revealed that all animal feeds analyzed were positive for aflatoxin B1 with 91% samples containing high concentrations ranging from 24.00 to 76.23 ng/g above the international allowable standard for animal feeds (20 ng/g). Maize bran (76 ng/g) and sunflower cake (63 ng/g) had higher aflatoxin B1 concentrations, correlating with higher moisture content. Upon heating the feeds, aflatoxin B1 was reduced to a concentration ranging from 2.24 to 9.78 ng/g (<20 ng/g). Our study suggests high potential health problems to animals and humans from aflatoxins requiring proper heating and frequent monitoring of the animal feeds for aflatoxin B1.