EU Conducts Safety Assessment of β-Mannanase as Feed Additive for Fattening Chickens and Turkeys

The European Union (EU) has recently conducted a safety assessment of a feed additive called β-mannanase for fattening chickens, turkeys, and other poultry species. This evaluation was carried out by the Panel on Additives and Products or Substances used in Animal Feed (FEEDAP), in response to a request from the European Commission. The assessment aimed to determine the safety of β-mannanase as a feed additive for these specific animal species.

On February 15, 2024, the European Food Safety Authority (EFSA) reported that the FEEDAP research group evaluated the safety of β-mannanase, specifically the endo-1,4-β-d-mannanase enzyme produced by Thermothelomyces thermophilus DSM 33149. The assessment focused on its use as a feed additive for fattening chickens, turkeys, minor poultry species, and ornamental birds.

After a thorough evaluation, the expert panel concluded that under the recommended conditions of use, the additive is safe for the target animal species and consumers. The safety and efficacy of the additive had been previously assessed, but the FEEDAP Panel required additional data regarding the potential genotoxicity of the additive to reach a conclusive decision. In response to this requirement, the applicant submitted a new in vitro mammalian cell micronucleus test.

Following the assessment of the newly submitted data, the FEEDAP Panel determined that the proposed use of the feed additive in animal nutrition poses no concerns for the safety of the target species and consumers. The additive was found to be non-irritating to the eyes and skin. However, due to the proteinaceous nature of the active substance, it should be considered a respiratory sensitiser. The assessment did not provide conclusive evidence regarding the potential of the additive to be a skin sensitiser.

In conclusion, the EU's EFSA has conducted a safety assessment of β-mannanase as a feed additive for fattening chickens, turkeys, and other poultry species. The evaluation by the FEEDAP Panel determined that the additive is safe under the recommended conditions of use, with no concerns for the target animal species and consumer safety. This assessment contributes to ensuring the safety and quality of animal feed additives within the EU.