Safety Assessment RP686 L. Lactis

An application was submitted to the Food Standards Agency in March 2021 from Chr. Hansen A/S (“the applicant”) for the renewal of authorisation of an additive (Lactococcus lactis DSM 11037), under the category of ‘technological – silage additives’. The additive is proposed to be included in silage at a rate of 108 CFU/kg of fresh plant material. The additive aims to improve silage quality in easy, moderately difficult and difficult to ensilage crops. To support the Food Standards Agency (FSA) and Food Standards Scotland (FSS) in evaluating the dossier, the Advisory Committee on Animal Feedingstuffs (ACAF) were asked to review the dossier and the supplementary information from the applicant. The additive was fully characterised in the application and no causes for concern were identified by the ACAF in the identity and characterisation. The ACAF concluded that the additive can be considered safe for the target species, consumers and the environment, based on the QPS status of Lactococcus lactis DSM 11037 and the evidence presented through a literature review. The additive should be considered an eye and skin irritant, and a skin and respiratory sensitiser. As the additive is dusty and contains a large proportion of small particles, measures should be taken to reduce the inhalation exposure of workers. No efficacy evaluation was required for the renewal of authorisation. The views of ACAF have been taken into account in the safety assessment which represents the opinion of the FSA and FSS.