Aflatoxin M1 and cyclopiazonic acid in fluid milk traded in São Paulo, Brazil

Abstract

Aflatoxin M1 (AFM1) and cyclopiazonic acid (CPA) were determined in 48 samples of grade A–C and ultra-high-temperature (UHT)-treated fluid commercial milk from São Paulo, Brazil, from July to December 2004. AFM1 and CPA determinations were carried out by HPLC. Results showed 37 (77.1%) positive samples for AFM1 at levels of 0.011–0.251 µg l–1 milk, which were below the tolerance limit for AFM1 in milk as adopted by Brazilian regulations. Mean levels of AFM1 in grades A–C and UHT milk were 0.060 ± 0.080, 0.056 ± 0.063, 0.064 ± 0.041 and 0.075 ± 0.048 µg l–1, respectively. CPA was detected in two samples (4.2%) of grade A milk at levels of 6.4 and 9.7 µg l–1. This is the first report of the occurrence of CPA in milk in Brazil. It was concluded that the incidence of AFM1 in milk traded in São Paulo is low, but the simultaneous occurrence of CPA, even at low levels, warrants concern about AFM1 in milk and milk products.