Aflatoxin M1 in human breast milk in southeastern Turkey

This study was performed to determine aflatoxin M-1 (AFM(1)) in human breast milk samples collected in AanlA +/- urfa, located in Southeastern region of Turkey, and to investigate a possible correlation between AFM(1) occurrence (frequency and levels) and sampling seasons. Human breast milk samples collected in December 2014 and in June 2015 from a total of 74 nursing women, both outpatient and inpatient volunteers in hospitals located in AanlA +/- urfa, Turkey, were analyzed using competitive enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA) for the presence of AFM(1). AFM(1) was detected in 66 (89.2%) out of 74 samples at an average concentration of 19.0 +/- 13.0 ng/l (min.-max., 9.6-80 ng/l). There was a statistically significant difference between December and June concerning AFM(1) levels (p < 0.05). Further detailed studies will be needed to determine the main sources of aflatoxins in food, to establish protection strategies against maternal and infant exposure to these mycotoxins.