Assessing the Biodetoxification Potential of Enterococcus faecium on Aflatoxin M1 in Fresh Raw Cow Milk

Abstract

Study’s Novelty/Excerpt This study contributes to the field of food safety by exploring the bio-detoxification potential of E. faecium isolates from locally fermented cow milk for reducing Aflatoxin M1 (AFM1) contamination. By employing both biochemical and molecular methods to identify and utilize these isolates, the research provides innovative insights into an environmentally friendly and health-beneficial approach to mitigating aflatoxin contamination. The findings demonstrate a significant AFM1 binding capacity of E. faecium, highlighting its potential as a practical and safe biocontrol agent, which is critical for improving milk safety standards and public health protection. Full Abstract The adverse effects of aflatoxins on the economy and public health have prompted research into strategies to prevent their contamination in food and feed.  Biological methods have become popular because they are environmentally friendly and beneficial for health.  This research aims to determine the bio-detoxification potential of E. faecium, on Aflatoxin M1 (AFM1) in raw cow milk.  Biochemical and molecular methods were used to identify the E. faecium isolates obtained from locally fermented cow milk (Nono).  Three (3) distinct sampling locations in the Zaria metropolis, Dan-Magaji, Kufena, and Gabari, were used to gather nine (9) fresh milk samples.  A quick test kit was used to screen the samples for AFM1 contamination.  To determine the level of contamination, AFM1-contaminated samples were analyzed using High-Performance Liquid Chromatography (HPLC) analysis.  The isolates were injected into the tainted milk samples at a cell density of 1.5 x 108cfu/mL and 3.0x108cfu/mL for 30 and 60 minutes at 4 and 37 degrees Celsius.  The amount of unbound AFM1 in the samples was measured using HPLC analysis and surface binding assay.  "ANOVA" single factor and two ways were used to analyze the data.  All collected raw milk samples were contaminated with aflatoxin M1 at concentrations exceeding the EU/NAFDAC limit of ≤0.05 µg/L.  The isolates bound AFM1 at 35-45% rates at a cell concentration of 3.0x108 cfu/mL at 37°C for 60 minutes.  This research suggests that E. faecium could be an effective option for reducing AFM1 contamination in milk samples due to its harmless nature and recognition as generally safe.  Additionally, regulatory agencies should implement thorough monitoring to ensure AFM1 levels in milk and milk products remain below acceptable limits.