EFSA Publishes Update on Authorization of Calcium D-Pantothenate Feed Additive

On July 19, 2024, the European Food Safety Authority (EFSA) officially released an important announcement regarding the assessment of the authorization update for calcium D-pantothenate (calcium D-pantothenate) as a feed additive for all animal species. This assessment not only comprehensively reviews the application of calcium D-pantothenate in the feed industry, but also is a critical step in ensuring animal food safety and public health within the European Union.

According to the information, upon the request of the European Commission, EFSA was responsible for conducting a scientific evaluation of the safety and efficacy of calcium D-pantothenate as a nutritional feed additive for all animal species. Calcium D-pantothenate, an important B-group vitamin, has already been authorized for use in the EU for all animal species (authorization number 3a841). The focus of this assessment was to confirm whether the calcium D-pantothenate additives currently on the market comply with the existing authorization conditions and whether the production process has undergone any changes.

After a thorough assessment by the expert panel, they concluded that under the authorized conditions of use, calcium D-pantothenate is safe for all animal species, consumers, and the environment. This conclusion is based on extensive experimental data and empirical studies, ensuring the accuracy and reliability of the assessment results. It is worth mentioning that calcium D-pantothenate is non-irritant to the skin and eyes and does not cause skin sensitization, which makes its application in the feed industry more widespread and safe.

During the assessment process, EFSA's FEEDAP (Panel on Additives and Products or Substances used in Animal Feed) conducted detailed analyses of the production process, quality standards, and toxicological studies of calcium D-pantothenate. They found that the evidence provided by the applicant indicates that the calcium D-pantothenate additives currently on the market fully comply with the existing authorization conditions, and the production process has not undergone any changes. This finding provides strong support for the continued use of calcium D-pantothenate.

Furthermore, the expert panel noted that the authorization update application did not include any modifications that could affect the efficacy of calcium D-pantothenate. Therefore, there was no need to re-evaluate the efficacy of calcium D-pantothenate during the assessment process. This conclusion means that the application of calcium D-pantothenate in animal feed will continue to maintain its original high efficiency and stability.

The publication of these assessment results not only provides a legal basis for the continued use of calcium D-pantothenate within the EU, but also offers a robust safeguard for ensuring animal food safety and public health. This also reflects the EU's strict standards and scientific approach in food safety regulation. In the future, we have reason to believe that the EU will continue to strengthen the regulation and assessment of food additives, ensuring maximum protection for consumer health and interests.