Fluoroquinolone residues in raw cow's milk

Abstract

The aim of the study was to monitore the levels of fluoroquinolone residues in bulk samples of raw cow’s milk. The bulk samples of raw cow’s milk (n = 150) were obtained from 58 different milk suppliers in the South Moravian and Vysočina Regions. The samples were analysed by reverse phase high-performance liquid chromatography method with fluorescence detection and gradient elution. 87.3% of the raw milk samples were positive for the fluoroquinolones residues. Flumequine was present in none of the samples. The levels of other fluoroquinolones investigated were below the recommended maximum residue limit. The results of the study indicate that fluoroquinolones are frequently administered to the dairy cows in spite of the recommendations of CVMP. The most frequently determined was enrofloxacin and its indicator residue, i.e. ciprofloxacin. An efficient control of the veterinary drugs residues in milk is very important to ensure the safety of the milk and milk products.