ASSESSMENT OF RESEARCH RESULTS ON AFLATOXINS IN FOOD IN GEORGIA

Abstract

The presence of aflatoxins in food remains a significant food safety challenge in Georgia. This study aimed to evaluate the monitoring results of the National Food Agency of Georgia for the period 2019–2025. According to the findings, no aflatoxin M1 was detected in dairy samples in 2019; however, from 2022 onward, there has been an increase in the number of positive samples. In 2025, five samples exceeded the permissible aflatoxin M1 limits. Testing of hazelnut samples showed relatively low contamination levels (1.6%), though export-oriented products are subject to stricter controls. Armenia’s experience demonstrated that effective regulations can minimize aflatoxin contamination in dairy products. The study concludes that Georgia needs to strengthen the control of animal feed quality, improve storage conditions, raise farmer awareness, and enhance monitoring and laboratory capacities to ensure food safety and protect public health.