EFSA Public consultation: guidance on characterisation of microorganisms used as feed additives

The draft guidance combines all the requirements for the safety assessment of feed additives containing or obtained from microorganisms. The latter group includes genetically modified microorganisms.

The guidance describes methodologies for investigating the possible presence of DNA of the microorganism used in the production process in the final product. These methodologies reflect current EFSA practice for the assessment of such additives. The suggested approach has been endorsed by EFSA’s Panels on Food Contact Materials, Enzymes, Flavourings and Processing Aids (CEF); Food Additives and Nutrient Sources Added to Food (ANS); and Genetically Modified Organisms (GMO) due to possible similarities with assessments of other products obtained from microorganisms.

The guidance document will help applicants in the preparation and presentation of applications for authorisation.

EFSA invites interested parties to submit written comments by 15 September 2017.

• Public consultation on the FEEDAP Panel’s guidance on the characterisation of microorganisms used as feed additives or as production organisms