AFLATOXINS AND CLIMATE CHANGE, A SCOPING REVIEW OF MYCOTOXIN CONTAMINATION IN THE SOUTHWESTERN BALKANS
AFLATOXINS AND CLIMATE CHANGE, A SCOPING REVIEW OF MYCOTOXIN CONTAMINATION IN THE SOUTHWESTERN BALKANS

Summary/Abstract: This review investigated mycotoxin contamination, focusing on aflatoxins, with a emphasis on the relationship between climate change and contamination levels in cereals and dairy products. The primary objective was to analyze data on aflatoxins and other mycotoxins in the region’s agricultural commodities and assess the potential public health risks. Data was collected from studies published between 2010 and 2023, focusing on cereals, maize, and dairy products. The analysis synthesized findings from peer-reviewed literature and reports. Studies showed significant aflatoxin B1 and aflatoxin M1 contamination in maize, feed, and dairy products. In maize and feed, 26.2% of samples had AFB1 levels above 5 μg/kg, but most remained within legal limits for animal feed. AFM1 in milk varied seasonally, with higher contamination in winter; Tuzla Canton showed the highest average (27.00 ng/L). Although most dairy products were safe, some isolated incidents exceeded limits. Other mycotoxins like ochratoxin A, fumonisins, and deoxynivalenol were also detected, often co-occurring, complicating management. Climatic conditions, particularly warmer, variable weather, correlated with increased mycotoxin levels. The review highlights the significant public health risk posed by mycotoxins in western Balkans. The findings suggest that ongoing climate change will exacerbate contamination levels, necessitating improved monitoring, storage practices, and regulatory frameworks to mitigate the risks. Further research is needed to develop effective mitigation strategies tailored to the region’s unique climatic and agricultural conditions.

• Details
• Contents