Aflatoxin M1 removal from milk by adsorbent clays

Adsorbent clays have an excellent capacity of binding mycotoxins. This work assesses the potential of natural zeolite and bentonite for Aflatoxin M1 (AFM1) removal from milk and water. Artificially contaminated milk and water samples (with 50 and 500 ng/L AFM1) were contacted with 5 gr/L of sorbents, including zeolite powder, zeolite beads and bentonite powder. Amounts of residual AFM1, and also protein, fat and lactose content were determined in treated milks. Results showed that the adsorption of AFM1 on natural zeolite and bentonite varied from 63 to 100% based on the type of clays and AFM1 concentration. For zeolite powder, the adsorption treatment reduced the content of total protein. Adsorbent clays reduce the AFM1 content of milk by surface removal of them. These adsorbents do not destroy or inactivate the toxin and do not produce toxic residual. The extent of toxin removal depends on clay contact surface and by using proper clays; it is possible to reduce the AFM1 content of milk below the allowed level.