European Union Evaluates Authorizing Red Carotenoid-Rich Paracoccus carotinifaciens NITE SD 00017 as a Feed Additive for Salmon and Trout

On July 30, 2024, the European Food Safety Authority (EFSA) officially published the results of its comprehensive evaluation of the application for renewal of the authorization of Paraclococcus NITE SD 00017, rich in red carotenoids, as a feed additive for salmon and trout. This detailed report not only demonstrates EFSA's rigorous approach to food safety, but also provides important scientific evidence for the global aquaculture industry and consumers.

First, let's dive into the background of this additive. Red carotenoids, as a class of natural pigments, have been widely used in aquaculture because of their bright color and immune-enhancing properties. Paracococcus NITE SD 00017 is an important source of these pigments and is used as a feed additive to improve the body color and market value of salmon and trout.

During the evaluation process, EFSA assembled an evaluation team of leading experts in the field of food safety to conduct an in-depth analysis of multiple aspects of the additive. Through rigorous scientific methods and data analysis, the panel confirmed that under the conditions of authorized use, the additive had no negative effects on the growth, health and reproduction of the two target species, salmon and trout. The panel also found that while consumption of trout/salmon muscle containing broxanthin and cinnabar may briefly exceed the acceptable daily intake (ADI) set by the World Health Organization (WHO), this excess is not to the extent that it poses a health hazard. EFSA therefore considers that the additive is safe for consumers under the current conditions of use.

It is worth noting that the evaluation report also details the potential health risks of the additive. According to the experimental results, NITE SD 00017 has no obvious irritation to the skin, but may have a certain irritating effect on the eyes. In addition, the additive is considered a potential skin and respiratory allergen. Therefore, EFSA in the report to remind the relevant practitioners and consumers, in contact with and use of this additive, should take the necessary protective measures to reduce potential health risks.

In response to the issue of consumer ingestion of broxanthine and cinnabar red that may exceed ADI, EFSA has conducted an in-depth analysis in the report. They believe that because of the low accumulation of these pigments in fish and the limited intake of consumers in their daily diets, the long-term impact on human health is negligible. At the same time, EFSA also stresses the importance of reducing potential risks through a balanced diet and moderate intake.

EFSA's evaluation results reconfirm the safety and efficacy of NITE SD 00017 as a feed additive for salmon and trout. This conclusion not only provides strong support for the aquaculture industry, but also provides consumers with more peace of mind and healthy food choices. However, we should also recognize that the use of any food additive needs to be guided by science to ensure its safety and sustainability. In the future, we look forward to seeing more research and evaluation of these additives to drive the continued development of aquaculture and food safety."