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Aflatoxin M1 is one of the important mycotoxins that must be monitored in milk and dairy products to ensure food safety. Its primary source is Aflatoxin B1, which may be present in feed consumed by dairy animals.
This feed-derived contaminant can be metabolized by animals and subsequently transferred into milk. Therefore, Aflatoxin M1 control should be considered not only for finished products but also throughout the entire supply and production chain.
How Does Aflatoxin M1 Form?
Aflatoxins are mycotoxins produced by certain mold species, particularly Aspergillus flavus and Aspergillus parasiticus.
Unsuitable feed raw materials and improper storage conditions may increase the risk of Aflatoxin B1 formation. When animals consume contaminated feed, Aflatoxin B1 (AFB1) is metabolized and may be transferred into milk as Aflatoxin M1 (AFM1).
Therefore, when elevated or unexpected results are obtained, it is important to evaluate the feed, raw materials, and supply chain together.
Does Pasteurization Eliminate Aflatoxin M1?
Pasteurization and UHT treatments are essential processes for ensuring microbiological safety. However, due to its heat-stable nature, Aflatoxin M1 cannot be completely eliminated by conventional heat treatments.
Therefore, mycotoxin control in milk and dairy products should be evaluated separately from the production process.
Which Products Should Be Tested?
Aflatoxin M1 testing is important for various dairy products, including:
Although specific Aflatoxin M1 limits may not be directly established for certain dairy products under applicable regulations, testing these products remains important for food safety.
In processed dairy products, particularly cheese and milk powder, changes in concentration during production may affect Aflatoxin M1 levels. Therefore, Aflatoxin M1 testing is recommended not only for raw milk but also for finished dairy products.
When evaluating analytical results, the product type, manufacturing process, and applicable regulatory requirements should be considered together.
Regulations and Compliance
In Türkiye, maximum levels of mycotoxins, including Aflatoxin M1, in food products are regulated under the Turkish Food Codex Regulation on Contaminants.
Sampling procedures and analytical method criteria for official controls are specified in the Turkish Food Codex Communiqué on Sampling and Analysis Method Criteria for the Official Control of Mycotoxin Levels in Foodstuffs (Communiqué No. 2025/7).
Therefore, laboratory results should be evaluated in accordance with current regulations and the relevant product category.
Accredited Aflatoxin M1 Analysis at Bilim Laboratories
At Bilim Laboratories, we perform Aflatoxin M1 analysis in milk and dairy products under TÜRKAK accreditation in accordance with the ISO/IEC 17025 standard.
Our accredited Aflatoxin M1 testing services support raw milk acceptance, raw material inspection, finished product safety, quality control, and regulatory compliance assessments.
For more information about Aflatoxin M1 testing in milk and dairy products, sample requirements, analysis prices, and turnaround times, please contact Bilim Laboratories.
