DETECTION OF AFLATOXIN B1 IN DIFFERENT ANIMAL FEEDSTUFFS IN THREE REGIONS OF BEKAA VALLEY–LEBANON

Abstract

Present study aims to determine the levels of AFB1 in different animals’ feedstuffs (Soybean, Corn, Cotton seeds, Barley bran, Wheat bran and Hay). For this purpose 90 samples were collected from 15 small farms of three regions of the Bekaa Valley Baalbeck (R1), Zahleh (R2) and West Bekaa (R3) between June 2022 and July 2022. Samples were placed in plastic bags and transported to the laboratory within 12 hours. Samples were stored at 4℃ and analyzed for AFB1 within seven days after collection using a competitive Enzyme–Linked Immunosorbent Assay (ELISA) technique. Mean of AFB1 levels were exceeded the maximum for European Union accepted levels for all samples and USA and Lebanese permissible levels for Soybean, Cotton seed, Corn and Hay but showed no statistical significance when compared to this limit (p>0.05). This finding shows that feed producers and dairy farmers should maintain sustainable good procedures for all feed harvesting, storage, and feeding techniques in order to avoid aflatoxin contamination.