EU Approves Thyme Essential Oil as a Technological Feed Additive for Chickens

On the date of August 8, 2024, the European Commission published a new regulation officially authorizing the use of spice oil as a technical additive in animal feed for chickens. The main active ingredient in these approved essential oils is thyme, which is extracted from our common aromatic plant, thyme.

This decision is based on an exhaustive scientific assessment conducted by the European Food Safety Authority (EFSA). In its assessment report, EFSA states that at the recommended dosages and conditions, the essential oil derived from thyme is safe for chickens, the end consumer and the natural environment. In addition to this, it can also act as an effective preservative to help extend the shelf life of feed.

Prior to this, the European Union has approved thyme essential oil as an additive in the feed of broilers and laying hens. This approval has now been further extended to cover all types of chicken feed. This expansion will undoubtedly provide more options for feed producers and farmers, allowing them to adapt their feed formulation to their own farming needs.

This important initiative fully demonstrates the EU's strong determination in animal feed safety and quality management. The EU is constantly committed to improving the safety and quality standards of feed, and is also committed to providing more technical guidance and policy support for the feed industry and related industrial chains to ensure the sustainable development of the entire industry.