AWARENESS AND MITIGATION MEASURES OF AFLATOXIN AMONG POULTRY FARMERS AND FEED MILLERS IN IJEBU-ODE AND IGBESA AREA OF OGUN STATE, NIGERIA

Abstract

Poultry feed ingredients which comprises of maize, peanut meal, soya bean meal and mixtures of maize, groundnut cake and other crops have been associated with mycotoxin contamination during crop production and storage, with limited attention given to this by local poultry farmers and regulatory bodies. Food and Agriculture Organization report states that about up to a quarter of the world's growing crops are affected by mycotoxins each year. In this study, level of awareness and mitigation measures of aflatoxin among poultry farmers and feed millers in Ijebu-Ode and Igbesa area of Ogun State, Nigeria was assessed. Using a descriptive survey design, 120 respondents, comprising poultry farmers and feed processors were sampled. The structured questionnaire measured among other things the demographic information of the sampled population, their level of awareness of aflatoxin and mitigation practices. The results revealed that majority (88.34%) of respondents were aged 18-50 years. The industry appeared male-dominated, with 70.9%. Out of the sampled population, 59.17% were married, and educational attainment reveals that 58.82% had tertiary education. Regarding mycotoxin awareness, 52.72% of respondents were unaware, and farmers and processors exhibited similar knowledge about influencing factors and dangers. The findings underscored the urgency of tailored interventions and educational programs to enhance awareness and practices among poultry stakeholders in the region.