The detoxification of aflatoxin M1 by Lactobacillus acidophilus and Bifidobacterium spp.: A review

One of the most studied mycotoxins is Aflatoxin M-1 (AFM(1))(,) which as a carcinogen should be eliminated or limited from food products especially dairy products. Among different detoxification methods of AFM(1), several strains of lactic acid bacteria (LABs) (particularly Lactobacillus acidophilus and Bifidobacterium spp.) can bind Aflatoxin M-1 and furthermore, eliminate them. The principal mechanism of detoxification by LABs is the physical binding to peptidoglycan and polysaccharides present in the bacterial cell wall. This paper reviews the detoxification capability of some LABs strains and the critical roles of factors affecting the binding procedures including LAB strains, optimum incubation time, and the cell concentration of LABs. Practical application This study reviewed the impact of lactic acid bacteria on detoxification of aflatoxin M1. As the high toxicity effect of aflatoxin M1 in food is proved, finding a safe method in order to remove them is crucial. Lactic acid bacterias (LABs) are vastly applied in food science and technology due to their various beneficial effects, being easy manageable and safe technique. LABs were completely efficient in the elimination of aflatoxins in food besides having no potential adverse health/toxic effects.