Renewing authorization of potassium diformate as an animal feed additive
On 5 August 2022, the European Commission adopted Implementing Regulation (EU) 2022/1374, authorizing the preservative potassium diformate for piglets and pigs.
Previously, this additive was authorized for all animal species in Implementing Regulation (EU) 492/2006.
The application for renewal of potassium diformate originally sought use for all species, but that was withdrawn and replaced with use for pigs only.
Thereafter, an investigation by the EFSA Panel on Additives and Products or Substances used in Animal Feed (FEEDAP), it was determined that potassium diformate was safe for pigs in specific amounts, depending on the age and type: 12,000 mg/kg for sows and 6,000 mg/kg for pigs and piglets.
FEEDAP could not conclude on the safety of the additive for other animals and also stated there was no need for further investigation of efficacy.
The Commission determines in Implementing Regulation (EU) 2022/1374 that the additive meets the requirements for safe consumption established in Regulation (EC) 1831/2003 insofar as it:
(i) has no adverse effects on animals, humans, or the environment,
(ii) favorably affects the characteristics of the product or the animal,
(iii) satisfies the nutritional needs of animals, and
(iv) is not an antibiotic.
Therefore, potassium diformate is added to the list of authorized additives in Regulation (EC) 1831/2003, under the category “technological additives”, more specifically “preservatives”.
The new Implementing Regulation also repeals Implementing Regulation (EU) 492/2006.
