Toxicity of aflatoxin B1 in broiler chicks and its reduction by activated charcoal.

A study was conducted on 60 broiler chicks of the effect of activated charcoal (200 ppm) on the toxicity of 0.5 ppm aflatoxin B1 (AFB1) in feed fed from day 1 to day 42. Activated charcoal was found to be moderately effective in reducing the harmful effects of AFB1 as assessed by growth response and various biochemical parameters. The feeding of activated charcoal along with AFB1 reduced the inhibitory effect of AFB1 on bodyweights and feed intake. There was also a significant improvement in the serum aspartate aminotransferase, alkaline phosphatase, total proteins, calcium and phosphorus levels. However, no significant improvement was observed in cholesterol levels.