Aflatoxins in Animal Feed and Their Adverse Effects on Animals Their Prevention and Control

Aflatoxins are toxic secondary metabolites produced primarily by certain species of fungi belonging to the genus Aspergillus, particularly Aspergillus flavus and Aspergillus parasiticus. These toxins commonly contaminate animal feed ingredients such as maize, groundnut cake, cottonseed, cereals, and other oilseed meals, especially under warm and humid storage conditions. Aflatoxin contamination is a major concern in animal nutrition because it can reduce feed intake, impair growth and productivity, damage vital organs, suppress immunity, and cause reproductive disturbances. Aflatoxin B₁ (AFB₁) is considered the most potent and widely studied aflatoxin. In dairy animals, its metabolite aflatoxin M₁ (AFM₁) can be excreted in milk, creating a potential public health hazard. This article discusses the sources, types, mechanisms of toxicity, clinical signs, pathological changes, species-specific effects, and preventive strategies for aflatoxicosis in livestock and poultry.