MICOBIOTA AND AFM1 LEVELS IN FOOD SUPPLEMENTS FOR INFANTS AND SENIORSB.C. DOS S. F PEREIRA, V.M. FARIAS, L.A. KELLER AND R.M. FRANCOAbstract This study aimed to show the presence of fungi in powder supplements for infants and for seniors, comparing counts as well as aflatoxin M1 levels. The overall average of fungal count and variety was high. As for aflatoxin M1 levels, approximately 11.6% samples were above the European Union limits. One sample was above United States limits. Data show the persistence and viability of fungi even after the manufacturing process. It highlights the importance of good manufacturing practices and storage conditions, by both the industry and by the consumers. It also can be considered a potential health risk due the inherent fragility of the target consumers. More studies are suggested to better understand fungi growth and mycotoxin production in such matrix. |