Mycotoxin Contamination of Animal Feed and Its Implications for Food Chain Safety in Oyo State

Mycotoxins in animal feed can accumulate in animal products such as milk, eggs, and meat, creating a route of human dietary exposure with implications for public health. This study investigated mycotoxin contamination of animal feed and assessed the implications for food chain safety in selected poultry and swine farms in Oyo State, South West Nigeria. Sixty feed samples comprising maize-based concentrate, soy-based pellets, and mixed rations were collected from ten farms. High-performance liquid chromatography was used to quantify aflatoxin B1, ochratoxin A, fumonisin B1, and deoxynivalenol levels. Paired animal product samples including eggs and pork were also analyzed for aflatoxin M1 and carry-over mycotoxins using enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay. Farm feed storage conditions were documented using a structured checklist. Aflatoxin B1 contamination above the European Union limit for poultry feed was detected in 41.7% of maize-based feed samples. Aflatoxin M1 carry-over was confirmed in 21.4% of egg samples from farms with contaminated feed. Fumonisin contamination was also notable in swine rations. Poor storage conditions including high humidity, inadequate ventilation, and pest contamination were associated with elevated mycotoxin levels. The study concludes that mycotoxin-contaminated feed poses a carry-over risk to food chain products in Oyo State. Improved feed storage, routine mycotoxin monitoring, and feed quality standards enforceable by regulatory authorities are recommended. Keywords: mycotoxins, animal feed, food chain safety, aflatoxin, Oyo State