The EU Evaluates The Safety And Effectiveness Of Feed Additives Consisting Of Extracts From Soap Tree And Yucca For All Poultry Species And Ornamental Birds

According to information released by the European Food Safety Authority (EFSA), the EU Animal Feed Additives and Products (FEEDAP) research Group has carried out an evaluation of feed additives consisting of soap tree and yucca extract.

The research team believes that the additive is safe for the target species, consumers and the environment under the recommended conditions of use. However, due to a lack of data, no conclusions can be drawn about its efficacy in all poultry species and ornamental birds.

Specifically, the panel concluded that the additive is safe for broiler chickens when added to their feed in amounts up to 250 mg/kg, and speculated that this conclusion also applies to other poultry and ornamental birds. However, they also noted that the additive was irritating to the skin, as well as irritating to the eyes and respiratory system, and could not determine its sensitization.

This scientific opinion provides a basis for further regulation of such additives in the EU. Industry insiders said that further data collection is needed in the future to comprehensively evaluate the safety and efficacy of the additive to ensure product safety and use effect.