Prevalence of different mold genera and total aflatoxin content in frozen chicken meat and giblets: a health risk assessment study

Abstract

This study aimed at investigating the prevalence of different mould genera and total aflatoxins (AFTs) content in the retailed frozen chicken breast, thigh, and giblets, including wings, livers, and gizzards. Furthermore, the estimated daily intakes (EDI) of AFTs were calculated. Aflatoxin-related cancer risks among Egyptian adults and children were further assessed using the margin of exposure (MOE) approach. The obtained results indicated mould contamination of the examined chicken breast, thigh, wings, livers, and gizzards at 40%, 30%, 25%, 70%, and 60%, respectively. Aspergillus spp. and Penicillium spp. were the most predominant mould genera among the examined samples. Further identification of the isolated Aspergilli revealed that Aspergillus niger and Aspergillus flavus were the dominant Aspergillus spp. AFTs were detected only in 40% and 25% of the examined liver and gizzard samples, respectively. Positive correlations between AFTs and total mould counts in both livers and gizzards were observed. Calculation of the EDI and MOE of AFTs via consumption of chicken livers and gizzards revealed that excessive consumption of such products represents a potential risk, particularly among children. Therefore, it is highly recommended to adopt strict hygienic measures during the processing and storage of chicken carcasses and reduce the daily intake of chicken livers and giblets.