Exposure degree of broilers to ochratoxin A through naturally contaminated feed

The degree of exposure of broilers to ochratoxin A (OTA) in naturally contaminated feed and the hygienic quality of feeds were evaluated. Thus, total fungal count and OTA occurrence were evaluated in four feed types (pre-starter, starter, grower and finisher) intended for broilers from a poultry breeding farm in Parana State, Brazil. In most feed samples the total mold and yeast count were below 1.0 x 10(4) CFU/g, the maximum limit tolerated to assure good hygienic quality of the feed. OTA was detected in 19.1% samples at levels ranging from 0.1 to 8.26 g/kg. The estimated daily intake of OTA was 0.015 mu g/kg body weight (bw)/day (pre-starter), 0.005 (starter), 0.028 (grower) and 0.015 mu g/kg bw/day for finisher feed samples. These results indicated that the exposure degree of broilers and the risk of OTA carry-over to human food (broiler meat) would be very low. Practical applicationsThe risk of mycotoxin contamination in grains and feed is an important food safety concern. OTA is one of the most important mycotoxins contaminating broiler feed because of its potential toxic effects to humans and animals. OTA is heat stable and cannot be removed by industrial processing; therefore carry-over of OTA to kidney, liver and muscle increase the human hazard exposure. Evaluation of the exposure degree is one of the most important parameters for the risk assessment of mycotoxins. Considering the world globalization, this study is essential because Brazil is the third largest producer of broilers worldwide and the leading exporter of chicken meat supplying 158 countries. The results of this study showed that the exposure degree of broilers and the risk of OTA carry-over to human food (broiler meat) would be very low, indicating that the meat exported by Brazil would be safe for consumption concerning OTA.