Aflatoxin M1 in donkey milk from indigenous breeds in the Zasavica natural reserve

Dragana Ljubojević Pelić; Sandra Jakšić; Nenad Popov; Suzana Vidaković Knežević; Tomislav Kačarević; Miloš Pelić; Milica Živkov Baloš

doi:10.18485/meattech.2025.66.3.54

Dragana Ljubojević Pelić Scientific Veterinary Institute „Novi Sad“, Novi Sad, Serbia https://orcid.org/0000-0002-7833-7696
Sandra Jakšić Scientific Veterinary Institute “Novi Sad”, Novi Sad, Serbia https://orcid.org/0000-0002-0799-1797
Nenad Popov Scientific Veterinary Institute “Novi Sad”, Novi Sad, Serbia https://orcid.org/0000-0002-3102-4334
Suzana Vidaković Knežević Scientific Veterinary Institute “Novi Sad”, Novi Sad, Serbia https://orcid.org/0000-0001-7711-3917
Tomislav Kačarević Scientific Veterinary Institute “Novi Sad”, Novi Sad, Serbia https://orcid.org/0009-0005-2455-3077
Miloš Pelić Scientific Veterinary Institute “Novi Sad”, Novi Sad, Serbia https://orcid.org/0000-0002-9055-0625
Milica Živkov Baloš Scientific Veterinary Institute “Novi Sad”, Novi Sad, Serbia https://orcid.org/0000-0002-4266-1232

DOI: https://doi.org/10.18485/meattech.2025.66.3.54

Keywords: aflatoxin M1, autochthonous donkey breeds, food safety, organic farming, sustainable production

Abstract

Donkey milk is considered highly valued for its hypoallergenic properties and distinctive nutritional benefits. However, there is limited information on its potential contaminants, such as aflatoxin M1 (AFM1). This study aimed to thoroughly assess the safety of milk from Balkan and Banat donkey breeds raised under extensive organic (free-range) conditions, focusing on a significant concern - AFM1 concentrations across different seasons. Monthly samples were collected over the course of a year, resulting in a total of thirty-six pooled samples. AFM1 levels were quantified using a validated enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA), with results showing concentration of AFM1 in donkey milk remained below the detection limit throughout the year.”. This study underscores the need for additional research on both the nutritional and safety aspects of donkey milk, particularly in relation to seasonal variations, potential presence of other environmental toxins, and differences among donkey breeds.