A review of the presence of some food contaminants on the territory of the Republic of Serbia

Food contamination is one of the major problems in food distribution. Microorganisms and their metabolites are the most common food contaminants. This review consolidates the reported food contamination cases in the Republic of Serbia. Mycotoxins were stated as the most common contaminants in various foods. Among them mycotoxins like zearalenone, aflatoxins, fumonisins, and deoxynivalenol were the most frequently detected. Also, the contamination caused by the presence of various microorganisms like L. monocytogenes, E. coli, Salmonella spp. and S. aureus was reported in high frequency. The microbial contamination was usually detected in meat and dairy products. Although heavy metals were detected in some products, in most cases their concentrations were in accordance with the legislation. A higher level of Pb and Hg was stated only in a few samples of tea, milk and fish. The constant analysis, control and prevention are needed at all levels of the production in order to compile the safety requirements and international legislation.