# Safety of a feed additive consisting of xanthan gum (produced with Xanthomonas campestris strains ATCC SD‐7012, DSM 23730, CNCM I‐4861 and ■■■■■ for all animal species with the exception of cats and aquatic species (BIOPOLYMER International)

## TL;DR

The paper confirms that xanthan gum, produced with specific strains, is safe for animal feed in most species, with no major safety concerns.

## Contribution

The study provides a comprehensive safety evaluation of xanthan gum as a feed additive for non-feline and non-aquatic animals.

## Key findings

- Xanthan gum production strains do not pose safety concerns.
- The additive is safe for target animals, consumers, and the environment.
- No skin irritation or sensitization risks were identified.

## Abstract

Following a request from the European Commission, the European Food Safety Authority was asked to deliver a scientific opinion on the safety of xanthan gum as a technological feed additive for all animal species, with the exception of cats and aquatic species. Xanthan gum, produced with Xanthomonas campestris ATCC SD‐7012, CNCM I‐4861, DSM 23730 and ■■■■■, does not pose any safety concern associated with the production strains. The FEEDAP Panel concluded that the additive is safe for all target animal species under application. The use of xanthan gum in animal nutrition did not pose any concern for consumer safety. Additionally, the use of this additive was considered safe for the environment. Regarding the user safety, the additive is not a skin irritant or a skin sensitiser. The FEEDAP Panel cannot conclude on the eye irritation potential due to the lack of data.