The Food and Veterinary Agency has ordered the removal from the market of the “SELECT MILK GR” concentrate intended for dairy cows after it was found that its level of Aflatoxin B1 (AFB1) exceeded the maximum permitted limit.

The product was manufactured in Serbia by DE HEUS D.O.O., while in Kosovo it was imported by N.P.T. “Haxhijaha” SH.P.K., based in Rahovec.

The withdrawal procedure covers LOTs 0385010426007 and 0385020426001. According to the AUV, the link between each LOT and the sample and non-compliance identified will be determined after the final verification.

In addition to removing the product from circulation, the remaining quantities must be isolated and the distribution network traced to the operators and farms where the concentrate may have been used.

Farmers, distributors and operators in possession of the product from the aforementioned LOTs must stop using and selling it. The AUV has requested that it be kept separately and that the parties cooperate with the agency and the responsible operator throughout the withdrawal process.

A temporary preventive ban will be in force for 30 days on imports from Serbia of concentrates and maize-based mixtures for dairy cows and calves. This measure applies to products classified or declared under tariff code 2309909600, originating in or manufactured in Serbia.

Within this period, the AUV will prepare a documented risk assessment based on laboratory results and official inspections in order to determine the next steps.

At the same time, checks for the presence of AFB1 in maize and maize-based products used for animal feed have been intensified, particularly in concentrates for dairy cows. These measures include more frequent inspections, sampling and laboratory analyses.

Aflatoxin B1 is a toxic substance that can occur in maize and animal feed. The National Institute of Public Health of Kosovo considers the presence of aflatoxins concerning because of their toxic, genotoxic and carcinogenic effects, especially on the liver.

The AUV explains that when dairy cows are fed products contaminated with AFB1, part of this substance can be converted into Aflatoxin M1 and end up in milk. For this reason, controlling animal feed is considered an important measure for preventing aflatoxins from entering the food chain.

The agency says it will continue inspections at the border and within the country, laboratory analyses and product tracing, with the aim of eliminating the risk at its source and protecting animal and consumer health.

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Minister Armend Muja has announced temporary preventive measures and tighter controls on aflatoxin, aimed at ensuring food safety and protecting consumers’ health.

In a Facebook post, Muja said the decision followed confirmation that the maximum permitted level of Aflatoxin B1 (AFB1) had been exceeded in the “SELECT MILK GR” concentrate for dairy cows, produced by DE HEUS D.O.O. in the Republic of Serbia.

The minister ordered the product to be withdrawn from circulation, the remaining quantities to be isolated and its distribution traced.

At the same time, a temporary preventive measure, effective for 30 days, was imposed to ban imports of corn-based concentrates and mixtures for dairy cows and calves. The measure applies to products under tariff code 2309909600 that originate in or are produced in the Republic of Serbia.

During this period, the Food and Veterinary Agency (FVA) must prepare a documented risk assessment. Further action will be determined on the basis of this assessment.

Increased checks have also been ordered for the presence of Aflatoxin B1 (AFB1) in corn and corn-based products used as animal feed. During the initial phase, intensive inspections, sampling and laboratory analyses will be carried out in accordance with the measures set out in the decision.

The measures are temporary and preventive, and will be reviewed based on laboratory results and the risk assessment.

According to the minister’s announcement, the aim is to identify the risk at its source, prevent non-compliant products from entering the food chain and protect citizens’ health.

Muja stressed that food safety requires continuous inspections and an evidence-based response. He added that when laboratory results indicate the presence of a risk, institutions must act promptly and in accordance with the law.

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