Assessment of the feed additive consisting of bentonite (1m558i) for all animal species for the renewal of its authorisation (EUBA aisbl)

TL;DR

This paper assesses bentonite as a feed additive and concludes it remains safe for animals and the environment under current conditions.

Contribution

The paper confirms the safety of bentonite for continued use without requiring new efficacy assessments.

Findings

Bentonite is safe for all animal species, consumers, and the environment under current conditions.

Bentonite is not skin-irritant but is eye-irritant and a potential skin and respiratory sensitiser.

No new efficacy assessment is needed for the renewal of its authorisation.

Abstract

Following a request from the European Commission, EFSA was asked to deliver a scientific opinion on the renewal of bentonite as a technological feed additive in the functional groups of binders, anticaking agents and substances for control of radionuclide contamination for all animal species. The applicant has provided evidence that the additive currently on the market complies with the existing conditions of authorisation. There is no evidence that would lead the FEEDAP Panel to reconsider its previous conclusions. Thus, the Panel concluded that the additive remains safe for all animal species, consumers and the environment under the authorised conditions of use. Regarding user safety, the Panel concludes that bentonite is not irritant to the skin but is irritant to the eyes and should be considered a skin and respiratory sensitiser. Any exposure is considered a risk. There is no need for assessing the efficacy of the additive in the context of the renewal of the authorisation.