Aflatoxin analysis

Introduction

Aflatoxins are a group of toxic compounds produced by certain fungi, primarily Aspergillus flavus and Aspergillus parasiticus. These fungi can grow on a variety of food crops, including peanuts, maize, cottonseed, tree nuts, and spices, under warm and humid conditions. Consumption of aflatoxin-contaminated food can lead to serious health problems, including liver damage, cancer, and death.

Types of aflatoxins

There are over 20 known types of aflatoxins, but the four most common ones found in food are:

Aflatoxin B1 (AFB1): This is the most potent and toxic aflatoxin, and it is classified as a Group 1 carcinogen by the International Agency for Research on Cancer (IARC). AFB1 is primarily produced by Aspergillus flavus and parasiticus fungi and can contaminate a variety of food crops, including peanuts, maize, cottonseed, tree nuts, and spices.

Aflatoxin B2 (AFB2): This is a less potent carcinogen than AFB1, but it is still considered to be a health risk. AFB2 is also produced by Aspergillus flavus and parasiticus fungi and can contaminate the same food crops as AFB1.

Aflatoxin G1 (AFG1): This is less potent than AFB1 and AFB2, but it is still considered to be a carcinogen. AFG1 is primarily produced by Aspergillus parasiticus and can contaminate the same food crops as AFB1 and AFB2.

Aflatoxin G2 (AFG2): This is the least potent of the four main aflatoxins, but it is still considered to be a carcinogen. AFG2 is also produced by Aspergillus parasiticus and can contaminate the same food crops as AFB1, AFB2, and AFG1.

Foods Susceptible to Aflatoxin Contamination and Source of Contamination

Importance of testing

Market overview

The global Aflotoxins testing market was valued at approximately US$ 6.12 billion in 2021 and is estimated to reach US$ 11.12 billion by 2030. The market is anticipated to witness significant growth due to the rising emphasis on food safety regulations and stricter standards worldwide.

Recall incidents 

In a recent development, a food company based in New England has voluntarily recalled its dry roasted peanuts, as disclosed by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) on August 23, 2021. The recall, spanning multiple states, is a precautionary measure initiated due to concerns about potential high levels of aflatoxin in the product. Aflatoxin is a naturally occurring mycotoxin that can pose health risks if consumed in excessive amounts.

Standards and Regulations  

Aflatoxins, toxic compounds produced by certain fungi, pose a significant health risk due to their carcinogenic and liver-damaging properties. To safeguard public health, various organizations have established regulations limiting aflatoxin levels in food across different regions. Here's a comparative overview of these regulations by FSSAI (India), EU, and USFDA:

Mandatory and optional analyses for aflatoxins

Aflatoxins are potent toxins produced by certain Aspergillus molds, posing a significant threat to food safety and human health. As a result, various regulations and guidelines exist to control their presence in food products. Here's a breakdown of mandatory and optional analyses for aflatoxins:

Mandatory Analyses:

Total aflatoxin content: This is the most crucial analysis, usually mandatory for specific food categories like peanuts, corn, and tree nuts. Regulations often set maximum allowable limits based on national or international standards. Common methods include ELISA (enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay) or HPLC (high-performance liquid chromatography) due to their speed and accuracy.

Individual aflatoxin analysis: Depending on regulations, specific aflatoxins like B1, B2, G1, and G2 might also require individual testing, particularly when total aflatoxin content exceeds the limit. This provides a more detailed picture of the toxin profile and potential health risks.

Optional Analyses:

Aflatoxin B1 specific analysis: This analysis focuses solely on aflatoxin B1, considered the most potent and carcinogenic among aflatoxins. While not always mandatory, it can offer additional information for risk assessment and potentially stricter control measures.

Aflatoxin M1 analysis: This aflatoxin metabolite, found in milk of animals consuming contaminated feed, might be tested in specific cases like dairy products.

Aflatoxin precursor analysis: Analyzing for aflatoxin precursors like sterigmatocystin can help predict potential aflatoxin contamination risk, particularly in early stages of food processing.

Mycotoxin profiling: This advanced analysis detects a wider range of mycotoxins beyond aflatoxins, providing a comprehensive picture of potential fungal contamination risks.

Eurofins role in testing aflatoxins

Eurofins plays a significant role in testing for aflatoxins in various food products, contributing to ensuring food safety and protecting consumers from the harmful effects of these toxins. Here's an overview of their contributions:

Testing Expertise:

• Comprehensive portfolio: Eurofins offers a wide range of analytical services for aflatoxin detection, including:
• Total aflatoxin content: Using established methods like ELISA and HPLC, aligned with international and national regulations.
• Individual aflatoxin analysis: Identifying specific aflatoxins like B1, B2, G1, and G2 for detailed toxin profiles.
• Optional analyses: Offering aflatoxin B1 specific testing, aflatoxin M1 analysis, and mycotoxin profiling as needed.
• Experience across various matrices: Eurofins can analyze diverse food products prone to aflatoxin contamination, including peanuts, corn, tree nuts, dairy products, and spices.
• Regulatory compliance: Their testing methods adhere to relevant regulations and standards, ensuring product safety and marketability.

Additional Services:

• Consultancy and advice: Eurofins experts can advise on appropriate testing strategies based on food types, risk factors, and regulatory requirements.
• Sampling support: They offer guidance on proper sampling procedures to ensure representative and accurate test results.
• Interpretation and reporting: Eurofins provides clear and concise reports interpreting test results and their implications for food safety compliance.

References

1. Kumar P, Mahato DK, Kamle M, Mohanta TK, Kang SG. Aflatoxins: A Global Concern for Food Safety, Human Health and Their Management. Front Microbiol. 2017 Jan 17;7:2170. doi: 10.3389/fmicb.2016.02170. PMID: 28144235; PMCID: PMC5240007.
2. https://www.emsl.com/News.aspx?newsid=3752

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