SUMMARY OF ARTICLE

ABSTRACT

Aflatoxin M1 (AFM1), a potent carcinogenic hydroxylated metabolite of aflatoxin B1, poses significant food safety challenge in the dairy sector. Its contamination results from ingestion of aflatoxin B1-contaminated feed by dairy animals. The surveys indicate that there are several incidences of occurrence of AFM1 in Indian milk and significant number of samples exceed the MRL (0.5 µg/Kg) set by FSSAI. Techniques such as Enzyme Linked Immunosorbent Assay (ELISA) and High Pressure Liquid Chromatography (HPLC) coupled with Fluorescence Detector (FLD) are commonly employed for detection of AFM1. Control measures include stringent feed quality management, regular monitoring of milk at the collection stage and the use of toxin binders in animal feed. Despite these strategies, challenges such as scattered milk production, limited farmer awareness and insufficient infrastructure for regular testing hinder the effective implementation of control programs. Strengthening regulatory surveillance, developing rapid on-site detection technologies, and conducting widespread farmer education initiatives are essential steps toward reducing AFM1 contamination.