AUV destroys 5.56 tonnes of Serbian corn after excessive aflatoxin B1 levels are found

Laboratory analyses found aflatoxin B1 levels above the permitted limit in 5.56 tonnes of corn imported from Serbia. As a result, the Food and Veterinary Agency (AUV) destroyed the product.

The corn was destroyed on October 29, 2026, under the supervision of AUV inspectors. The measures were carried out at three businesses: 3,270 kilograms at “Agro Com” Sh.P.K. in Fushë Kosovë, 1,040 kilograms at “Thermo-1” Sh.P.K. in Prugoc, Pristina, and 1,250 kilograms at NTP “Te Hysi” in Shtime.

According to the agency, the ban on using and selling the corn was imposed as part of official food and animal feed safety inspections.

Aflatoxin B1 is produced by several types of mold and can contaminate grains, including corn. Long-term exposure can cause liver damage and increase the risk of developing cancer.

The toxin can also enter the food chain: when animals consume contaminated feed, aflatoxin B1 can be converted into aflatoxin M1 and pass into milk, posing a potential risk to consumers’ health.

The AUV has urged farmers, producers and animal feed traders to verify the origin and traceability of products, ensure proper storage conditions, and not use or sell corn found to exceed the permitted aflatoxin B1 level.

In cooperation with the Ministry of Agriculture, Forestry and Rural Development, the AUV said it will continue official inspections and laboratory testing to prevent the distribution of products that could endanger human and animal health.