Aflatoxin: is it a neglected threat for formula-fed infants?

Occurrence of aflatoxins and fumonisins in Incaparina from Guatemala

The occurrence of aflatoxins and fumonisins in Incaparina was investigated. Incaparina is a mixture of corn and cottonseed flour with added vitamins, minerals and a preservative. It has been marketed as a high-protein food supplement, particularly for children on protein-deficient diets. According to estimates, 80% of Guatemalan children in their first year are given Incaparina to provide an adequate diet. Eight samples of Incaparina manufactured in Guatemala were collected. Five were from three different geographical locations in the USA and three were from Guatemala. Seven were examined for fungal contamination and analysed for aflatoxins and fumonisins. Aspergillus flavus was the predominant fungus in all samples purchased in the USA and in one sample purchased from Guatemala, whereas Fusarium verticillioides was present in only two samples (one from the USA and one from Guatemala). All samples contained aflatoxins, ranging from 3 to 214 ng g(-1) and <2 to 32ng g(-1) for aflatoxin B(1) and aflatoxin B(2), respectively; and one sample contained aflatoxin G(1) (7 ng g(-1)). Total aflatoxins present ranged from 3 to 244 ng g(1). All samples contained fumonisins, ranging from 0.2 to 1.7 microg g(-1), <0.1 to 0.6 microg g(-1), and <0.1 to 0.2 microg g(-1) for fumonisins B(1), fumonisin B(2), and fumonisin B(2), respectively. Total fumonisins present ranged from 0.2 to 2.2 microg g(-1). The identity of aflatoxin B(2) was confirmed using both the chemical derivatization method and liquid chromatographic (LC)/mass spectrometric (MS) analysis. Appropriate regulatory action was recommended for the import of Incaparina and has been in effect since 22 December 1998.

Situation of mycotoxins in milk, dairy products and human milk in Egypt

ABSTACT: Milk and dairy products purchased at Egyptian markets and breast milk from lactating mothers in Cairo and Giza governorates were analyzed for some mycotoxins. Three of 15 cows' milk samples were found positive for Afl. M1 with mean value 6.3 ppb. Only one sample of dried milk was positive (5 ppb). Two of 10 hard cheese samples contained detectable levels of Afl. M1 (3and 6 ppb), whereas one sample containing Afl. B1 and G1 (10 and 4 ppb resp.). For soft cheese one sample of 10 was positive for Afl. M1 (0.5 ppb). Blue veined cheeses were free of Afl. M1 and PR-toxins.For breast milk two of 10 samples were positive for Afl. M1 (20%) with mean value 2.75 ppb, while 3 of 10 samples were positive for Ochratoxin A (30 %).