EFFECT OF AFLATOXIN EXPOSURE IN LIVESTOCK AND PUBLIC HEALTH: REVIEW

Abstract

Aflatoxins are toxic metabolites produced by the fungi Aspergillus parasiticus and Aspergillus flavus, which commonly infest various nutritious foods and animal feed. Given the widespread occurrence of aflatoxins and their significant impact on livestock and public health, understanding the mechanisms of toxicity, routes of exposure and economic implications is crucial. This review aims to investigate the causes and effects of aflatoxin exposure on both human and animal health while proposing strategies for preventing and controlling contamination. Aflatoxin contamination impacts the entire food chain, affecting the production, storage, processing, trade and consumption of both plant and animal products. Its consequences extend to human health, livestock welfare, agricultural productivity, environmental integrity and trade, particularly in regions with inadequate aflatoxin control measures. Aflatoxicosis can result in acute mortality, cancer, immune suppression and other chronic health issues. Effective control measures include pre-harvest interventions, careful management during harvest and post-harvest decontamination. Strategies such as selecting resistant crop varieties, employing biological decontamination using microorganisms, physically removing contaminated materials and chemically inactivating aflatoxins are crucial for prevention. Regulating aflatoxin levels in food and feed is essential for protecting public health and promoting equitable trade, necessitating the establishment and enforcement of maximum allowable limits.