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Page No. : 103-109

ABSTRACT

This study was conducted to identify the differences in terms of knowledge, attitude, and practices (KAP) of aflatoxins contamination in animal feed and milk amongst dairy farmers. A descriptive cross-sectional survey was carried out and data were collected using validated questionnaires. A total of 135 dairy farmers consisting of the small, medium, and large dairy farms from three districts of Punjab, India, were participated in the survey. The results revealed that 94.8% and 77% of the dairy farmers were familiar with the fact that molds can grow on dairy animal’s feedstuff and dairy animals could pass aflatoxins in their milk, respectively. But the knowledge about the adverse human health effects associated with the consumption of aflatoxin-contaminated milk was found inadequate among the dairy farmers. Large dairy farm owners had better knowledge and attitude as compared to small and medium dairy farmers pertaining to aflatoxins contamination in animal feed and milk. With better awareness and attitude, large dairy farmers followed good farm management practices as compared to small and medium dairy farmers which in turn decreased the probability of occurrence of aflatoxins in feed and milk. Results of the study strongly emphasized the need to educate dairy farmers of Punjab about the sources of aflatoxins in animal’s feedstuff and milk, aflatoxins associated health hazards for humans and animals, and various managemental practices associated with the presence of aflatoxins in feed and milk, through extensive awareness campaigns.

Keywords: Aflatoxins, animal feed, dairy farmers, KAP, milk