Assessment of Aflatoxin B1 Contamination in Feed and Aflatoxin M1 in Camel Milk Under Different Feeding Systems

Abstract

Camel milk is an essential nutritional resource in arid and semiarid regions and has been gaining commercial importance, particularly in the Middle East. Concerns over mycotoxin contamination, particularly aflatoxins (AFs), pose potential health risks and may affect milk quality. Understanding the role of feeding systems on the occurrence of AFs and on milk quality is vital for safeguarding public health and improving dairy industry practices. This study aimed to evaluate the impact of different feeding systems on the chemical and microbiological quality of camel milk and to detect aflatoxin M1 (AFM1) in milk and AF B1 (AFB1) in camel feed. A total of 80 samples were collected from 40 camels across Riyadh and Dammam, Saudi Arabia, between March and May 2024. Camels were divided into two groups based on feeding systems: natural grazing (grasses and legumes) and semi-intensive farm-based feeding (concentrates). Milk samples were analyzed for chemical composition and microbiological quality. Statistical comparisons were made between groups. AFB1 was detected in 1 (5%) of the natural grazing feed samples and in 3 (15%) of the farm-based feed samples; all values were below the Saudi national MRL for AFM1 in milk (0.5 μg/kg), as well as the stricter European Union’s limit of 0.05 μg/kg and the Codex Alimentarius standard of 0.5 μg/kg. AFM1 was below the detection limit in all samples, and consequently, no significant differences between feeding systems could be observed. There was no significant difference in AFM1 levels between the two feeding systems. However, milk from naturally grazed camels exhibited significantly lower microbial counts. Samples from Riyadh showed no AF contamination. The absence of AFM1 in all milk samples suggests minimal public health risk. However, higher AFB1 occurrence in farm-based feed underscores the need for stringent feed monitoring. These findings inform management practices to enhance milk safety in camel dairy systems.