Analysis of aflatoxin levels in broiler chicken feed from selected farms in Nairobi City County, Kenya

Abstract

Aflatoxin levels in animal feed should be observed from the farm to the table to ensure the safety of the feed to animals and humans. The contamination of cereals and other agricultural supplies used in animal feed production could happen in the farm in the pre-harvest phase or in the post-harvest phase. The study sought to determine Aflatoxin levels in broiler feed from selected farms in Nairobi City County. A total of 42 feed samples were collected. Samples were analyzed using the LCMS/MS technique. Results from the study show that Aflatoxin levels in broiler starter were;B1(17.26±3.07 ppb), B2 (2.44±0.84 ppb), G1 (8.87±2.41 ppb), G2 (0.9±0.44 ppb) and Total AF (29.47±6.13 ppb). Aflatoxin levels in broiler finisher were B1 (17.17±3.09 ppb), B2 (2.68±1.18 ppb), G1 (9.25±2.7 ppb), G2 (1±0.45 ppb) and Total AF (30.1±6.88 ppb). Results from analysis of feed samples showed that AFB1 levels in both broiler starter and broiler finisher were above the KEBS limit but were below the EAC, EU and WHO/FAO limit. Total Aflatoxin levels were above the KEBS limit but below the EAC limit. There is need to enhance the capacity of feed surveillance and monitoring in the country through various laboratory analysis techniques among various agencies in the feed value chain to ensure feed safety.