EU approves new feed for farm animals

Feed supply in farm animals continues to grow as it plays a pivotal role within livestock production. Recently, the European Commission has approved the use and marketing of a new additive and a new type of feed for farm animals. One of these products is known as 3-fucosyllactose. The actual product which has been approved is derived from a strain of E. coli known as: BL21 (DE3).

What is 3-fucosyllactose?

3-Fucosyllactose, also called 3-FL is a white powder which is obtained through microbial fermentation. Some following elements stand out within its composition. However, these are found in low quantities:

D-lactose (less than 5%)
L-fucose (less than 3%)
D-galactose (less than 3%)
D-glucose (less than 3%)

This new food product authorized by the EU derives from a genetically modified strain of E. coli K-12. Although its approval has been authorized with human consumption under consideration, the truth is that it can also be used for livestock feed production.

It is mandatory to indicate this on the label

According to the European Parliament and the Council and Commission Regulations (EC), those manufacturers, traders and distributors who offer this product must indicate this on the users label.

A new feed additive for livestock: Pediococcus acidilactici CNCM I-4622

In addition to the authorisation of 3-fucosyllactose for human consumption, a novel feed for farm animals has also been approved to be marketed. This product is specifically known as as Pediococcus acidilactici CNCM I-4622, and has been authorised to be used as an additive in different types of feed.

What is Pediococcus acidilactici CNCM I-4622?

They are a group of acid bacteria found in dairy which provide a wide range of potential benefits. However, such benefits have not been 100% scientifically proven yet.This product is often used as a probiotic supplement, aiming to reduce constipation, and stress related diarrhea in birds and small animals.

In addition, Pediococcus acidilactici CNCM I-4622 helps to prevent pathogenic colonization of the small intestine. Including different pathogens such as:

Shigella
Salmonella
Clostridium difficile
Escherichia coli in small animals

This additive is intended to be included in liquid feed prepared for livestock on the farm.

Other authorisations for farm animal feed

In addition to the above, the European Commission has also authorized an additive for the production of livestock feed. The product is a bitter orange extract, which must mixed with neohesperidin dihydrochalcone for its use in livestock feed. The approval of orange inclusion in animal feed preparation is not new. Considering the fact that previously, various oils derived from orange were approved for their use in animal feed. This authorization was issued during the past month of August.