Determination of tetracycline residues in bovine milk and human health risks assessment using Monte Carlo simulation in Indian consumers
摘要
Failure to follow recommended withdrawal time and over the counter sale of antibiotics without proper prescription are major factors for occurrence of antibiotic residues in animal origin foods. The current investigation was aimed to chromatographically detect tetracycline residues in bovine milk (n = 200) and assess health risks among consumers using Monte Carlo simulation from Chhattisgarh, India. The method for detection and quantification was validated as per European Commission guidelines. Out of 200 samples, 18 (9%) and 6 (3%) samples contained oxytetracycline and tetracycline residues, respectively. However, all tested milk samples were found negative for chlortetracycline residues. Most of positive milk samples were having tetracycline residues levels above the maximum residual limits prescribed and established by FSSAI necessitating for assessment of human health risk among consumers. On the basis of demographic characteristics and milk consumption pattern, negligible risks due to detected antibiotics were found in consumers. However, presence of antibiotics above permissible limits is alarming and therefore it becomes imperative to spread awareness among farmers for good husbandry practices. The outcomes of this study also accentuate food safety regulators to routinely monitor animal sourced foods for antibiotic residues.