Maximum Aflatoxin B₁ Limit in Broiler and Layer Feed

Correct Answer: 20 ppb

As per BIS (Bureau of Indian Standards) 2007, the maximum permissible limit of Aflatoxin B₁ in both broiler and layer feed is 20 ppb (parts per billion).

What is Aflatoxin B₁?

• Produced by the fungus Aspergillus flavus and A. parasiticus, particularly in stored maize, groundnut cake, and cottonseed cake under warm, humid conditions.
• Aflatoxin B₁ is the most potent naturally occurring carcinogen known.
• In poultry, it causes Aflatoxicosis: reduced feed intake, poor growth, immunosuppression, liver damage, and reduced egg production.

BIS Aflatoxin Limits Across Feed Types

• All poultry feeds (broiler pre-starter to layer phase II): 20 ppb Aflatoxin B₁ maximum.

Related Fungal Diseases in Poultry

• Aspergillosis (Brooder pneumonia): Caused by Aspergillus fumigatus; respiratory disease in young chicks from contaminated litter/hatchery environment.
• Aflatoxicosis: Caused by dietary Aflatoxin B₁ > 20 ppb (from Aspergillus flavus/parasiticus in mouldy feed).

Why Other Options Are Wrong

• 10 ppb → more restrictive than BIS specification.
• 15 ppb → not the BIS-specified limit.
• 50 ppb → excessively permissive; beyond safe limits.