Safety and Efficacy Assessment of Schisandra Chinensis Tincture as Feed Additive for Poultry, Horses, Dogs, and Cats: Latest EU Evaluation

In a recent development, the European Food Safety Authority (EFSA) has conducted an evaluation regarding the safety and efficacy of Schisandra chinensis tincture as a feed additive for poultry, horses, dogs, and cats. This assessment was carried out as per the request of the European Commission. The findings of the evaluation shed light on the suitability of this dried fruit-based tincture as an additive in animal feed. Let's delve into the details of this evaluation.

Evaluation Details:

The tincture in question is derived from the dried fruit of Schisandra chinensis (Turcz.) Baill. and is formulated as a water/ethanol solution. It contains a dry matter content of not more than 4% (w/w) and a schisandrin and deoxyschisandrin content ranging from 0.01% to 0.15% (w/w). The Panel on Additives and Products or Substances used in Animal Feed (FEEDAP) of EFSA assessed the safety and efficacy of the tincture for various animal species.

Safety Assessment:

Based on the evaluation, the expert panel concluded that under the recommended conditions of use, the tincture is safe for the target species, consumers, and the environment. The concentrations considered safe for complete feed are as follows: 16 mg/kg for turkeys intended for fattening, 12 mg/kg for chickens intended for fattening, poultry reared for laying/reproduction, 18 mg/kg for laying hens and other laying/reproductive birds, 56 mg/kg for dogs, and 47 mg/kg for horses and cats.

Moreover, it was noted that the tincture may cause irritation to the skin and eyes and can act as dermal and respiratory sensitisers. However, the use of the tincture as a flavor in feed for poultry and horses was deemed to pose no risk to the environment.

Efficacy Assessment:

Considering that the fruit of S. chinensis can influence the sensory properties of feed, no further demonstration of efficacy was considered necessary for the tincture under assessment. This means that the tincture's effectiveness as a feed additive does not require additional proof beyond the sensory impact it imparts.

The recent evaluation conducted by EFSA on the safety and efficacy of Schisandra chinensis tincture as a feed additive for poultry, horses, dogs, and cats has deemed it safe for use under the recommended conditions. The tincture's impact on sensory properties eliminates the need for further efficacy testing. This evaluation provides valuable insights for regulatory considerations and serves to ensure the well-being of animals and consumers in the European Union.