Work

Green synthesis of okra mucilage-capped iron oxide nanoparticles and their application for aflatoxin M1 reduction in buffalo milk

Year: 2026

Type: article

Abstract: Aflatoxin M1 (AFM1) contamination of milk is a significant public health concern particularly in high-fat milk products like buffalo milk where traditional detoxification may affect nutritional quality. The present study aimed to assess the magnetic removal of AFM1 from raw buffalo milk by a green synthesis process with okra mucilage-coated iron oxide nanoparticles (OM-IONPs). The nanoparticles were synthesised at four different concentrations of the iron precursors (2, 5, 8, and 10 mM) and characterised using ultraviolet–visible spectroscopy, Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy, and X-ray diffraction. The 5 mM formulation resulted in the most crystalline and monodispersed hematite (α-Fe2O3) nanoparticles and the most effective detoxification. The optimised nanoparticles were applied to five naturally contaminated buffalo milk samples with 0.92–5.15 μg/L AFM1, and the toxin reduction was found to be 98.53% after 60 min and 89.3% after five reuses. Significantly, treatment did not affect the milk physicochemical properties and the carryover of residual iron was negligible. Precursor concentrations below and above the optimised value were less effective due to low yield of nanoparticles or agglomeration. Based on these results, it can be concluded that OM-IONPs are a potential, scalable, and food-safe magnetic nano-adsorbent for efficient AFM1 removal in the dairy industry.

Source: International Journal of Food Science & Technology

DOI: 10.1093/ijfood/vvag188

Authors: Rabbia Khan, Ali Ikram, Farhang Hameed Awlqadr, Muhammad Tayyab Arshad, Ombeni Birhashwirwa Justin

Institutions: University of Lahore, Sulaimani Polytechnic University, Prince of Songkla University, Institut Supérieur des Techniques Médicales de Bukavu

Language: English

Topic: Mycotoxins in Agriculture and Food

Subfield: Plant Science

Field: Agricultural and Biological Sciences

Domain: Life Sciences

SDGs: Zero hunger, Responsible consumption and production, Clean water and sanitation, Good health and well-being

Open Access status: gold

Estimated APC paid: $2,638