EU Warns of Safety Concerns Regarding Lemon Yellow as a Feed Additive in Freshwater Fish Bait

On October 30, 2024, according to the latest news from the European Food Safety Authority (EFSA), at the request of the European Commission, the EU Animal Feed Additives and Products (FEEDAP) Study Group conducted an in-depth scientific assessment of the safety and effectiveness of lemon yellow as a feed additive in freshwater fish baits and issued the corresponding scientific opinion.

After an exhaustive assessment and analysis, the panel concluded that under the recommended conditions of use, lemon yellow as a feed additive is safe for the target species, consumers and the environment. However, due to the lack of sufficient data support, the panel was unable to make a definitive conclusion about the efficacy of lemon yellow in freshwater fish baits.

Specifically, the European Commission has asked the European Food Safety Authority to issue a scientific opinion on the safety and effectiveness of lemon yellow as a sensory additive, with particular reference to its use in feed. Lemon yellow belongs to the colorant category and is primarily used to add or restore color to feed to attract fish in freshwater, including ponds and rivers, for recreational and competitive fishing. It is worth noting that this additive is not intended for use in aquaculture.

During the evaluation process, the EFSA Panel on Additives and Products or Substances Used in Animal Feed (FEEDAP) noted that the addition of lemon yellow to bait for freshwater fish under the proposed conditions of use had no negative effects on the target animal. In addition, the FEEDAP group also concluded that the use of lemon yellow as a feed additive is safe for consumers and the environment under the recommended conditions of use.

However, with user safety in mind, the FEEDAP group stresses that lemon yellow should be considered as a skin and breath sensitizer. Inhalation and skin contact are considered a risk. Due to the lack of relevant data, the FEEDAP group was unable to draw definitive conclusions about the stimulating potential of lemon yellow as a feed additive.

In summary, although the use of lemon yellow in freshwater fish baits is considered safe, its efficacy and potential irritants still need to be supported by further research and data to ensure its safety and effectiveness in practical applications.