EFSA suggests lower zinc limits in animal feed
It said the proposed levels should reduce the amount of zinc in manure released in the environment by about 20%.
The reduction in maximum permitted content of zinc in feed, said the Parma-based agency, ensures consumer safety, animal health and welfare, and does not affect animal productivity.
To complete its risk assessment, EFSA said it undertook a review of all the relevant available literature as well as data received from EU member states and from stakeholders.
The newly proposed total maximum contents are: 150 mg Zn per kg of feed for piglets, sows, rabbits, salmonids, cats and dogs; 120 mg Zn per kg of feed for turkeys for fattening and 100 mg Zn per kg of feed for all other species and categories.
The use of phytase, either from endogenous source or from a feed additive, in feeding piglets, pigs for fattening and sows would allow a further reduction of the newly proposed total maximum contents by 30%, added EFSA.
