Scientific Opinion on modification of the terms of authorisation of a red carotenoid-rich bacterium Paracoccus carotinifaciens (Panaferd-AX) as feed additive for salmon and trout

Following a request from the European Commission, the European Food Safety Authority (EFSA) was asked to deliver a scientific opinion on a modification to the terms of authorisation of a red carotenoid-rich bacterium Paracoccus carotinifaciens (Panaferd-AX) as feed additive for salmon and trout. The red carotenoid-rich bacterium Paracoccus carotinifaciens is authorised as a sensory additive for use in salmon and trout with a maximum content of 100 mg, expressed as the sum of astaxanthin, adonirubin and canthaxanthin per kg complete feed. The current carotenoid composition of the product is specified as 3-5 g canthaxanthin, 10-15 g adonirubin and 20-23 g astaxanthin/kg. The applicant proposes to modify the ranges of canthaxanthin to 1-5 g, and that of adonirubin to 7-15 g/kg product, while maintaining the astaxanthin range. The Panel on Additives and Products or Substances used in Animal Feed (FEEDAP) concludes that adjusting the ranges for canthaxanthin and adonirubin to the values proposed by the applicant would not affect safety and efficacy of the product, considering that there are no changes in (i) the manufacturing of the product compared to the former application, and (ii) the conditions of use already authorised. The applicant provided data of 70 batches to substantiate his proposal. Fourteen batches did not meet the specification for astaxanthin (below 20 g/kg product). The content of canthaxanthin and adonirubin of the remaining batches did not support the ranges as proposed by the applicant. However, reviewing the carotenoid composition, compliance with ranges of 2-5 g canthaxanthin/kg and 9-15 g adonirubin/kg product has been obtained. The FEEDAP Panel noted that any extension of the range of the specified carotenoid contents would increase the uncertainties of the feed manufacturer when using the product.