Assessment of the feed additive consisting of Pediococcus pentosaceus DSM 23689 for all animal species for the renewal of its authorisation (Chr. Hansen A/S)

Following a request from the European Commission, EFSA was asked to deliver a scientific opinion on the assessment of the application for renewal of the authorisation of Pediococcus pentosaceus DSM 23689 as a technological additive, silage additive for all animal species. The applicant has provided evidence that the additive currently on the market complies with the existing conditions of authorisation. The Panel concluded that the additive remains safe for all animal species, consumers, and the environment under the authorised conditions of use. Regarding user safety, the additive should be considered as a respiratory sensitiser. No conclusions can be drawn on the skin sensitisation, and skin and eye irritancy potential of the additive. There is no need for assessing the efficacy of the additive in the context of the renewal of the authorisation.

Autumn grass treated with a hydrolysable tannin extract versus lactic acid bacteria inoculant: Effects on silage fermentation characteristics and nutritional value and on performance of lactating dairy cows

Hydrolysable tannins (HT) show potential as silage additive for autumn herbage silages, high in (rumen degradable) protein, as they may reduce proteolysis. Additionally, they have abilities to form pH-reversible tannin-protein complexes, non-degradable in the rumen but degradable in the abomasum and intestines of ruminants. Therefore they can improve milk N efficiency and shift N excretions from urine to faeces, possibly mitigating the environmental impact of ruminants. In this study, two small bunker silos were filled with autumn grass. One was treated with 20 g/kg DM HT extract (TAN) (TannoSan-L), the other with 8 mg/kg DM inoculant containing lactic acid bacteria (INO) (Bonsilage Fit G). Secondly, micro-silos (2.75 L) were filled with four treatments; (1) grass without additive (CON) (n = 5); (2) TAN (n = 5); (3) INO (n = 5); and (4) TAN + INO (n = 5). The bunker silos were used in a cross-over feeding experiment with periods of 4 weeks involving 22 lactating Holstein cows (average ± SD: 183 ± 36.3 days in milk, 665 ± 71.0 kg body weight, and 33.8 ± 3.91 kg/day milk yield). The HT dose was insufficient to reduce proteolysis or alter chemical composition and nutritional value in the micro- and bunker silages. Including grass silage added with TAN (3.2 g HT/kg DM) in the diet, did not affect feed intake nor fat and protein corrected milk yield in comparison to feeding the grass silage added with INO in a similar diet. The TAN-fed cows had an increased faecal N excretion and decreased apparent total-tract N and organic matter digestibility, but no improvement in the cows' N utilization could be confirmed in milk and blood urea levels. Overall, feeding an autumn grass silage treated with 20 g/kg chestnut HT extract did not affect the performance of dairy cows in comparison to feeding an autumn grass silage treated with a lactic acid bacteria inoculant.

Assessment of the feed additive consisting of Lactiplantibacillus plantarum (formerly Lactobacillus plantarum) NCIMB 30083 for all animal species for the renewal of its authorisation (Chr. Hansen A/S)

Following a request from the European Commission, the Panel on Additives and Products or Substances used in Animal Feed (FEEDAP) was asked to deliver a scientific opinion on the assessment of the application for renewal of authorisation of Lactiplantibacillus plantarum (previously Lactobacillus plantarum) NCIMB 30083 as a technological additive, silage additive for all animal species. The applicant has provided evidence that the additive currently on the market complies with the existing conditions of authorisation. There is no evidence that would lead the FEEDAP Panel to reconsider its previous conclusions. Thus, the Panel concluded that the additive remains safe for all animal species, consumers and the environment under the authorised conditions of use. Regarding user safety, the additive should be considered as a respiratory sensitiser. No conclusions can be drawn on the skin sensitisation, and skin and eye irritancy potential of the additive. There is no need for assessing the efficacy of the additive in the context of the renewal of the authorisation.

Silage additives improve fermentation quality, aerobic stability and rumen degradation in mixed silage composed of amaranth and corn straw

The objective of this research was to investigate effects of different additives on the fermentation quality, aerobic stability and rumen degradation of mixed silage composed of amaranth and corn straw. The mixture ratio of amaranth to corn straw was 78%: 22%. Three additives were selected in this study and five groups were as follows: control group (CON, without additive), lactic acid bacteria group (LAB, 5 mg/kg, Lactobacillus plantarum ≥ 1.6×10¹⁰ CFU/g and L. buchneri ≥ 4.0×10⁹ CFU/g), glucose group (GLU, 30 g/kg), cellulase group (CEL, 2 mg/kg) and lactic acid bacteria, glucose and cellulase group (LGC, added at the same levels as in individual group). The period of ensiling was 60 days. Fermentation quality, chemical composition and aerobic stability of mixed silage were analyzed. Four cows with permanent ruminal fistula were selected as experimental animals. Nylon bag technique was used to study rumen degradation characteristic of dry matter (DM), crude protein (CP), neutral detergent fiber (NDF) and acid detergent fiber (ADF) of mixed silage. Compared with CON group, the addition of different silage additives could improve mixed silage quality of amaranth and corn straw to some extent. Combining three additives significantly increased (P < 0.05) the DM, CP and lactic acid contents, whereas decreased (P < 0.05) the ADF and NDF contents as well as pH and ammonia nitrogen/total nitrogen. Moreover, the aerobic stability and rumen degradation of DM, CP and NDF were significantly improved (P < 0.05) in LGC group when compared to other groups. In conclusion, the combined addition of lactic acid bacteria, glucose and cellulase increased DM, CP and lactic acid contents as well as lactic acid bacteria count, decreased NDF and ADF contents and aerobic bacteria and mold counts, improved aerobic stability and rumen degradation of amaranth and corn straw mixed silage.

Safety and efficacy of a feed additive consisting of Lentilactobacillus buchneri DSM 32650 as a feed additive for all animal species (BioCC OÜ)

Following a request from the European Commission, EFSA was asked to deliver a scientific opinion on the safety and efficacy of Lentilactobacillus buchneri DSM 32650 as a technological feed additive (functional group: silage additive) for all animal species. The additive is intended to improve the production of silage at a proposed application rate of 1 × 108 colony-forming units (CFU)/kg fresh material. The bacterial species L. buchneri is considered by the European Food Safety Authority to be suitable for the qualified presumption of safety (QPS) approach. As the identity of the strain has been established and no antimicrobial resistance determinants of concern were detected, the use of the strain as a silage additive is considered safe for the target species, consumers and the environment. In the absence of data, the FEEDAP Panel cannot conclude on the potential of the additive to be a skin/eye irritant or a skin sensitiser. Given the proteinaceous nature of the active agent, the additive should be considered a respiratory sensitiser. The FEEDAP Panel concluded that Lentilactobacillus buchneri DSM 32650 at a minimum concentration of 1 × 108 CFU/kg fresh material may extend the aerobic stability of silage from easy and moderately difficult to ensile fresh material with a dry matter content ranging from 28% to 45%.

Safety and efficacy of a feed additive consisting of Lentilactobacillus diolivorans (formerly Lactobacillus diolivorans) DSM 33625 as a silage additive for all animal species (Lactosan GmbH & Co.KG)

Following a request from the European Commission, EFSA was asked to deliver a scientific opinion on Lentilactobacillus diolivorans (formerly Lactobacillus diolivorans) DSM 33625 when used as a technological additive to improve ensiling of forage. The additive is intended for use with all forages and for all animal species at a proposed minimum concentration of 1 × 10⁸ colony forming units (CFU)/kg forage. The bacterial species L. diolivorans is considered by EFSA to be suitable for the qualified presumption of safety approach to safety assessment. As the identity of the strain has been clearly established and no acquired antimicrobial resistance determinants of concern were detected, the use of the strain as a silage additive is considered safe for livestock species, for consumers of products from animals fed the treated silage and for the environment. The additive is not a skin or an eye irritant. In the absence of data, no conclusion can be drawn on the skin sensitisation of the additive. Given the proteinaceous nature of the active agent, the additive should be considered a respiratory sensitiser. The FEEDAP Panel concluded that Lentilactobacillus diolivorans DSM 33625 at a minimum concentration of 1 × 10⁸ CFU/kg forage may extend the aerobic stability of silage prepared from easy and moderately difficult to ensile forage material with a DM range of 32-65%.

Assessment of the feed additive consisting of Lactiplantibacillus plantarum (previously Lactobacillus plantarum) DSM 19457 for all animal species for the renewal of its authorisation (Biomin GmbH)

Following a request from the European Commission, the Panel on Additives and Products or Substances used in Animal Feed (FEEDAP) was asked to deliver a scientific opinion on the assessment of the application for renewal of authorisation of Lactiplantibacillus plantarum (previously Lactobacillus plantarum) DSM 19457 as a technological additive for use in forage for all animal species. The applicant has provided evidence that the additive currently on the market complies with the existing conditions of authorisation. There is no evidence to lead the FEEDAP Panel to reconsider its previous conclusions. Thus, the Panel concluded that the additive remains safe for all animal species, consumers and the environment under the authorised conditions of use. Regarding user safety, the additive is not irritant to skin or eyes but owing to its proteinaceous nature, it should be considered a respiratory sensitiser. In the absence of data, no conclusions could be drawn on the skin sensitisation potential of the additive. There is no need for assessing the efficacy of the additive in the context of the renewal of the authorisation.

Preservation characteristics and bacterial communities of crimped ensiled barley grains modulated by moisture content and additive application

Information about the relationships between preservation characteristics and main bacterial communities of fermented feeds can guide decision making during feed preservation and silage additive development. The objective was to evaluate fermentation quality, aerobic stability, microbial quality and bacterial profile of crimped barley grains ensiled under three moisture contents (MC): 228 (low MC), 287 (medium MC) and 345 (high MC) g/kg fresh matter; and using four additive treatments: 1. Control (CONT), 2. Formic and propionic acid-based additive (FPA), 3. Inoculation with homofermentative and heterofermentative strains of lactic acid bacteria (LAB), and 4. Salt-based additive (SALT). There was a quadratic effect (p < 0.05) of incremental MC on pH where greater decline happened from low (5.81) to medium (4.83) MC than from medium to high (4.28) MC, while lactic acid concentration and aerobic stability increased in a linear manner (p < 0.05). Ammonia-N and acetic acid concentrations increased quadratically (p < 0.05) with increasing levels of MC. The effects of additives depended on MC so that improvements in preservation characteristics in response to LAB and SALT were observed at medium and high MC, while FPA was effective at all MC levels. A minor shift was observed in bacterial ecology from raw material towards low MC samples, with Erwiniaceae sp., Enterobacterales spp. and Pseudomonas dominating the fermentation. A major change occurred in medium and high MC materials, where Fructilactobacillus dominated the fermentation in CONT, FPA and SALT silages. LAB-treated silages at medium and high MC resulted in a distinguished pattern with dominance of Lentilactobacillus followed by Lactiplantibacillus. Most abundant communities in the samples, such as Fructilactobacillus, Erwiniaceae sp., Enterobacterales spp. and Pseudomonas, were correlated with several fermentation characteristics. Our results showed that crimped barley grains could be successfully ensiled under various MC and additive treatments. Low MC feeds had higher risk to be aerobically unstable while high MC resulted in more extensive fermentation, with potentially poor fermentation quality. The suitable additive depends on the raw material characteristics as LAB and SALT require relatively high MC to be effective, while FPA showed consistent improvements over all MC levels used in the current study. Awareness of the MC of grain prior to ensiling allows to identify the risks to preservation quality and provides information for choosing an effective additive.

Assessment of the feed additive consisting of Lactiplantibacillus plantarum (formerly Lactobacillus plantarum) DSM 8862 and L. plantarum DSM 8866 for all animal species for the renewal of its authorisation (Dr. Pieper Technologie- und Produktentwicklung GmbH)

Following a request from the European Commission, the EFSA Panel on Additives and Products or Substances used in Animal Feed (FEEDAP) was asked to deliver a scientific opinion on the assessment of the application for renewal of Lactiplantibacillus plantarum ssp. plantarum (formerly Lactobacillus plantarum ssp. plantarum) DSM 8862 and Lactiplantibacillus plantarum ssp. argentoratensis (formerly Lactobacillus plantarum ssp. argentoratensis) DSM 8866 as a technological additive to improve ensiling of forage for all animal species. There is no new evidence that would lead the FEEDAP Panel to reconsider its previous conclusions. Thus, the Panel concludes that the additive remains safe for all animal species, consumer and the environment under the authorised conditions of use. Regarding user safety, the additive is not a skin irritant but no conclusions can be drawn on the eye irritancy potential of the additive nor to the skin sensitisation potential. The additive should be considered a respiratory sensitiser. There is no need for assessing the efficacy of the additive in the context of the renewal of the authorisation.

Safety and efficacy of a feed additive consisting of Pediococcus pentosaceus DSM 32292 for all animal species (Marigot Ltd t/a Celtic Sea Minerals)

Following a request from the European Commission, the Panel on Additives and Products or Substances used in Animal Feed (FEEDAP) was asked to deliver a scientific opinion on the safety and efficacy of Pediococcus pentosaceus DSM 32292 as a technological additive for all animal species. The additive is intended to improve the production of silage at a proposed application rate of 5 × 10⁷ colony forming units (CFU)/kg forage. The bacterial species P. pentosaceus is considered by EFSA to be suitable for the qualified presumption of safety (QPS) approach. As the identity of the strain has been established and no antimicrobial resistance determinants of concern were detected, the use of the strain as a silage additive is considered safe for livestock species, for consumers and for the environment. In the absence of data, the FEEDAP Panel cannot conclude on the potential of the additive to be a skin/eye irritant or a skin sensitiser. Given the proteinaceous nature of the active agent, the additive should be considered a respiratory sensitiser. The additive at the proposed application rate of 5 × 10⁷ CFU/kg forage has the potential to improve the production of silages from moderately difficult to ensile forages.

Assessment of the feed additive consisting of Lactococcus lactis NCIMB 30160 for all animal species for the renewal of its authorisation (Lactosan GmbH & Co KG)

Following a request from the European Commission, the Panel on Additives and Products or Substances used in Animal Feed (FEEDAP) was asked to deliver a scientific opinion on the assessment of the application for renewal of authorisation of Lactococcus lactis NCIMB 30160 as a technological additive for all animal species. The additive aims to improve the production of silage and is authorised for all animal species. The applicant provided evidence that the additive currently on the market complies with the existing conditions of authorisation. There was no new evidence to lead the FEEDAP Panel to reconsider its previous conclusions. Thus, the Panel concluded that the additive remains safe for all animal species, consumers and the environment under the authorised conditions of use. Regarding user safety, Lactococcus lactis NCIMB 30160 is not irritant to skin and eyes but is considered a skin and respiratory sensitiser. There was no need for assessing the efficacy of the additive in the context of the renewal of the authorisation.

Assessment of the feed additive consisting of Levilactobacillus brevis (formerly Lactobacillus brevis) DSM 12835 EU for all animal species for the renewal of its authorisation (Lactosan GmbH & Co KG)

Following a request from the European Commission, the Panel on Additives and Products or Substances used in Animal Feed (FEEDAP) was asked to deliver a scientific opinion on the assessment of the application for renewal of authorisation of Levilactobacillus brevis (formerly Lactobacillus brevis) DSM 12835 as a technological additive for all animal species. The additive aims to improve the production of silage and is authorised without a minimum inclusion level. The applicant has provided evidence that the additive currently on the market complies with the existing conditions of authorisation. There was no new evidence to lead the FEEDAP Panel to reconsider its previous conclusions. Thus, the Panel concluded that the additive remains safe for all animal species, consumers and the environment under the authorised conditions of use. Regarding user safety, L. brevisDSM 12835 is not irritant to skin and eyes but is considered a skin and respiratory sensitiser. There was no need for assessing the efficacy of the additive in the context of the renewal of the authorisation.

Safety and efficacy of a feed additive consisting of Lacticaseibacillus rhamnosus (formerly Lactobacillus rhamnosus) NCIMB 30121 for all animal species for the renewal of its authorisation (Lactosan GmbH & Co. KG)

Following a request from the European Commission, EFSA was asked to deliver a scientific opinion on the assessment of the application for renewal of Lacticaseibacillus rhamnosus (formerly Lactobacillus rhamnosus) NCIMB 30121 as a technological additive for all animal species. The additive aims to improve the production of silage and is authorised without a minimum inclusion level. The applicant provided evidence that the additive currently on the market complies with the existing conditions of authorisation. There was no new evidence to lead the FEEDAP Panel to reconsider its previous conclusions. Thus, the Panel concluded that the additive remains safe for all animal species, consumers and the environment under the authorised conditions of use. Regarding user safety, the additive should be considered a skin and respiratory sensitiser. No conclusions could be drawn on the eye and skin irritancy potential of the additive. There was no need for assessing the efficacy of the additive in the context of the renewal of the authorisation.

Assessment of the feed additive consisting of Lacticaseibacillus paracasei (formerly Lactobacillus paracasei)DSM 16245 for all animal species for the renewal of its authorisation (Lactosan GmbH & Co KG)

Following a request from the European Commission, the Panel on Additives and Products or Substances used in Animal Feed (FEEDAP) was asked to deliver a scientific opinion on the assessment of the application for renewal of authorisation of Lacticaseibacillus paracasei (formerly Lactobacillus paracasei) DSM 16245 as a technological additive for all animal species. The additive aims to improve the production of silage and is currently authorised at a proposed application rate of 1 × 10⁸ colony forming units (CFU)/kg fresh material. The applicant has provided evidence that the additive currently on the market complies with the existing conditions of authorisation. There was no new evidence to lead the FEEDAP Panel to reconsider its previous conclusions. Thus, the Panel concluded that the additive remains safe for all animal species, consumers and the environment under the authorised conditions of use. Regarding user safety L. paracaseiDSM 16245 is not irritant to skin and eyes but is considered a skin and respiratory sensitiser.

Safety and efficacy of a feed additive consisting of Lactiplantibacillus plantarum (formerly Lactobacillus plantarum) DSM 26571 for all animal species (Chr. Hansen A/S)

Following a request from the European Commission, the Panel on Additives and Products or Substances used in Animal Feed (FEEDAP) was asked to deliver a scientific opinion on the safety and efficacy of Lactiplantibacillus plantarum (formerly Lactobacillus plantarum) DSM 26571 when used as a technological additive intended to improve ensiling of forage. The additive is intended for use with all forages and for all animal species at a proposed application rate of 1 × 10⁸ colony forming units (CFU)/kg fresh material. The bacterial species L. plantarum is considered by EFSA to be suitable for the qualified presumption of safety approach to safety assessment. As the identity of the strain has been clearly established and no acquired antimicrobial resistance determinants of concern were detected, the use of the strain as a silage additive is considered safe for livestock species, for consumers and for the environment. The additive is not irritant to skin or eyes and is not a skin sensitiser but should be considered a potential respiratory sensitiser. The FEEDAP Panel concluded that the addition of Lactiplantibacillus plantarumDSM 26571 at a minimum concentration of 1 × 10⁸CFU/kg may improve the production of silage from easy, moderately difficult and difficult to ensile forage material.

A Multi-Sensor Mini-Bioreactor to Preselect Silage Inoculants by Tracking Metabolic Activity in situ During Fermentation

The microbiome in silage may vary substantially from the onset to the completion of fermentation. Improved additives and inoculants are being developed to accelerate the ensiling process, to enhance fermentation quality, and to delay spoilage during feed-out. However, current methods for preselecting and characterizing these amendments are time-consuming and costly. Here, we have developed a multi-sensor mini-bioreactor (MSMB) to track microbial fermentation in situ and additionally presented a mathematical model for the optimal assessment among candidate inoculants based on the Bolza equation, a fundamental formula in optimal control theory. Three sensors [pH, CO₂, and ethanol (EtOH)] provided data for assessment, with four additional sensors (O₂, gas pressure, temperature, and atmospheric pressure) to monitor/control the fermentation environment. This advanced MSMB is demonstrated with an experimental method for evaluating three typical species of lactic acid bacteria (LAB), Lentilactobacillus buchneri (LB) alone, and LB mixed with Lactiplantibacillus plantarum (LBLP) or with Enterococcus faecium (LBEF), all cultured in De Man, Rogosa, and Sharpe (MRS) broth. The fermentation process was monitored in situ over 48 h with these candidate microbial strains using the MSMB. The experimental results combine acidification characteristics with production of CO₂ and EtOH, optimal assessment of the microbes, analysis of the metabolic sensitivity to pH, and partitioning of the contribution of each species to fermentation. These new data demonstrate that the MSMB associated with the novel rapid data-processing method may expedite development of microbial amendments for silage additives.

Safety and efficacy of a feed additive consisting of Lactiplantibacillus plantarum (formerly Lactobacillus plantarum) IMI 507027 for all animal species (ALL-TECHNOLOGY (IRELAND) LIMITED [Alltech Ireland])

Following a request from the European Commission, the Panel on Additives and Products or Substances used in Animal Feed (FEEDAP) was asked to deliver a scientific opinion on the safety and efficacy of Lactiplantibacillus plantarum (formerly Lactobacillus plantarum) IMI 507027 as a technological additive for all animal species. The additive is intended to improve the production of silage at a proposed application rate of 1 × 10⁹ colony forming units (CFU)/kg fresh material. The bacterial species L. plantarum is considered by EFSA to be suitable for the qualified presumption of safety approach. As the identity of the strain has been established and no antimicrobial resistance determinants of concern were detected, the use of the strain as a silage additive is considered safe for livestock species, for consumers and for the environment. In the absence of data, the FEEDAP Panel cannot conclude on the potential of the additive to be a skin/eye irritant or a skin sensitiser. Given the proteinaceous nature of the active agent, the additive should be considered a respiratory sensitiser. The additive at the proposed application rate of 1 × 10⁹CFU/kg fresh material has the potential to improve the fermentation of the silages from easy to moderately difficult to ensile forages.

Safety and efficacy of a feed additive consisting of Lactiplantibacillus plantarum (formerly Lactobacillus plantarum) IMI 507028 for all animal species (ALL-TECHNOLOGY (IRELAND) LIMITED [Alltech Ireland])

Following a request from the European Commission, the Panel on Additives and Products or Substances used in Animal Feed (FEEDAP) was asked to deliver a scientific opinion on the safety and efficacy of Lactiplantibacillus plantarum (formerly Lactobacillus plantarum) IMI 507028 as a technological additive for all animal species. The additive is intended to improve the production of silage at a proposed application rate of 1 × 10⁹ colony forming units (CFU)/kg fresh material. The bacterial species L. plantarum is considered by EFSA to be suitable for the qualified presumption of safety approach. As the identity of the strain has been established and no antimicrobial resistance determinants of concern were detected, the use of the strain as a silage additive is considered safe for livestock species, for consumers and for the environment. In the absence of data, the FEEDAP Panel cannot conclude on the potential of the additive to be a skin/eye irritant or a skin sensitiser. Given the proteinaceous nature of the active agent, the additive should be considered a respiratory sensitiser. The additive at the proposed application rate of 1 × 10⁹CFU/kg fresh material has the potential to improve the fermentation of the silages from easy to moderately difficult to ensile forages.

Safety and efficacy of a feed additive consisting of Lacticaseibacillus rhamnosus (formerly Lactobacillus rhamnosus) IMI 507023 for all animal species (ALL-TECHNOLOGY (IRELAND) LIMITED [Alltech Ireland])

Following a request from the European Commission, the Panel on Additives and Products or Substances used in Animal Feed (FEEDAP) was asked to deliver a scientific opinion on the safety and efficacy of Lacticaseibacillus rhamnosus (formerly Lactobacillus rhamnosus) IMI 507023 as a technological additive for all animal species. The additive is intended to improve the production of silage at a proposed application rate of 1 × 10⁹ colony‐forming units (CFU)/kg fresh material. The bacterial species L. rhamnosus is considered by EFSA to be suitable for the qualified presumption of safety approach. As the identity of the strain has been established and no acquired antimicrobial resistance determinants of concern were detected, the use of the strain as a silage additive is considered safe for livestock species, for consumers and for the environment. In the absence of data, the FEEDAP Panel cannot conclude on the potential of the additive to be a skin/eye irritant or a skin sensitiser. Given the proteinaceous nature of the active agent, the additive should be considered a respiratory sensitiser. The additive at the proposed application rate of 1 × 10⁹CFU/kg fresh material has the potential to improve the fermentation of the silages from easy to moderately difficult to ensile forages.

Safety and efficacy of a feed additive consisting of Pediococcus pentosaceusIMI 507024 for all animal species (ALL-TECHNOLOGY (IRELAND) LIMITED [Alltech Ireland])

Following a request from the European Commission, the Panel on Additives and Products or Substances used in Animal Feed (FEEDAP) was asked to deliver a scientific opinion on the safety and efficacy of Pediococcus pentosaceusIMI 507024 as a technological additive for all animal species. The additive is intended to improve the production of silage at a proposed application rate of 1 × 10⁹ colony forming units (CFU)/kg fresh material. The bacterial species P. pentosaceus is considered by EFSA to be suitable for the qualified presumption of safety approach. As the identity of the strain has been established and no antimicrobial resistance determinants of concern were detected, the use of the strain as a silage additive is considered safe for livestock species, for consumers and for the environment. In the absence of data, the FEEDAP Panel cannot conclude on the potential of the additive to be a skin/eye irritant or a skin sensitiser. Given the proteinaceous nature of the active agent, the additive should be considered a respiratory sensitiser. The additive at the proposed application rate of 1 × 10⁹CFU/kg fresh material has the potential to improve the fermentation of the silages from easy to moderately difficult to ensile forages.

Safety and efficacy of a feed additive consisting of Pediococcus pentosaceusIMI 507025 for all animal species (ALL-TECHNOLOGY (IRELAND) LIMITED [Alltech Ireland])

Following a request from the European Commission, the Panel on Additives and Products or Substances used in Animal Feed (FEEDAP) was asked to deliver a scientific opinion on the safety and efficacy of Pediococcus pentosaceusIMI 507025 as a technological additive for all animal species. The additive is intended to improve the production of silage at a proposed application rate of 1 × 10⁹ colony forming units (CFU)/kg fresh material. The bacterial species P. pentosaceus is considered by the European Food Safety Authority to be suitable for the qualified presumption of safety approach. As the identity of the strain has been established and no antimicrobial resistance determinants of concern were detected, the use of the strain as a silage additive is considered safe for livestock species, for consumers and for the environment. In the absence of data, the FEEDAP Panel cannot conclude on the potential of the additive to be a skin/eye irritant or a skin sensitiser. Given the proteinaceous nature of the active agent, the additive should be considered a respiratory sensitiser. The additive at the proposed application rate of 1 × 10⁹CFU/kg fresh material has the potential to improve the fermentation of the silages from easy to moderately difficult to ensile forages.

Assessment of the feed additive consisting of Pediococcus pentosaceus DSM 12834 for all animal species for the renewal of its authorisation (Lactosan GmbH & Co KG)

Following a request from the European Commission, the Panel on Additives and Products or Substances used in Animal Feed (FEEDAP) was asked to deliver a scientific opinion on the assessment of the application for renewal of the authorisation of Pediococcus pentosaceus DSM 12834 as a technological additive for all animal species. The applicant has provided evidence that the additive currently on the market complies with the existing conditions of authorisation. There is no evidence that would lead the FEEDAP Panel to reconsider its previous conclusions. Thus, the Panel concludes that the additive remains safe for all animal species, consumer and the environment under the authorised conditions of use. Regarding user safety Pediococcus pentosaceus DSM 12834 is not irritant to skin and eyes but is considered a skin and respiratory sensitiser. There is no need for assessing the efficacy of the additive in the context of the renewal of the authorisation.

Assessment of the feed additive consisting of Pediococcus acidilactici DSM 16243 for all animal species for the renewal of its authorisation (Lactosan GmbH & Co.KG)

Following a request from the European Commission, the Panel on Additives and Products or Substances used in Animal Feed (FEEDAP) was asked to deliver a scientific opinion on the assessment of the application for renewal of authorisation of Pediococcus acidilactici DSM 16243 as a technological additive for all animal species. The applicant has provided evidence that the additive currently on the market complies with the existing conditions of authorisation. There is no evidence that would lead the FEEDAP Panel to reconsider its previous conclusions. Thus, the Panel concludes that the additive remains safe for all animal species, consumer and the environment under the authorised conditions of use. Regarding user safety Pediococcus acidilactici DSM 16243 is not irritant to skin and eyes but is considered a skin and respiratory sensitiser. There is no need for assessing the efficacy of the additive in the context of the renewal of the authorisation.

Safety and efficacy of a feed additive consisting of Lactiplantibacillus plantarum (formerly Lactobacillus plantarum) IMI 507026 for all animal species (ALL-TECHNOLOGY (IRELAND) LIMITED [Alltech Ireland])

Following a request from the European Commission, the Panel on Additives and Products or Substances used in Animal Feed (FEEDAP) was asked to deliver a scientific opinion on the safety and efficacy of Lactiplantibacillus plantarum (formerly Lactobacillus plantarum) IMI 507026 as a technological additive for all animal species. The additive is intended to improve the production of silage at a proposed application rate of 1 × 10⁹ colony forming units (CFU)/kg fresh material. The bacterial species L. plantarum is considered by EFSA to be suitable for the qualified presumption of safety approach. As the identity of the strain has been established and no antimicrobial resistance determinants of concern were detected, the use of the strain as a silage additive is considered safe for livestock species, for consumers and for the environment. In the absence of data, the FEEDAP Panel cannot conclude on the potential of the additive to be a skin/eye irritant or a skin sensitiser. Given the proteinaceous nature of the active agent, the additive should be considered a respiratory sensitiser. The additive at the proposed application rate of 1 × 10⁹CFU/kg fresh material has the potential to improve the fermentation of the silages from easy to moderately difficult to ensile forages.

Assessment of the feed additive consisting of Lentilactobacillus buchneri (formerly Lactobacillus buchneri) DSM 16774 for all animal species for the renewal of its authorisation (Lactosan GmbH & Co.KG)

Following a request from the European Commission, the Panel on Additives and Products or Substances used in Animal Feed (FEEDAP) was asked to deliver a scientific opinion on the assessment of the application for renewal of authorisation of Lentilactobacillus buchneri (formerly Lactobacillus buchneri) DSM 16774 as a technological additive to improve ensiling of forage for all animal species. The applicant has provided evidence that the additive currently on the market complies with the existing conditions of authorisation. There is no evidence that would lead the FEEDAP Panel to reconsider its previous conclusions. Thus, the Panel concludes that the additive remains safe for all animal species, consumer and the environment under the authorised conditions of use. Regarding user safety Lentilactobacillus buchneri DSM 16774 is not irritant to skin and eyes but is considered a skin and respiratory sensitiser. There is no need for assessing the efficacy of the additive in the context of the renewal of the authorisation.

Assessment of the feed additive consisting of Lactiplantibacillus plantarum (formerly Lactobacillus plantarum) DSM 12837 for all animal species for the renewal of its authorisation (Lactosan GmbH & Co KG)

Following a request from the European Commission, the Panel on Additives and Products or Substances used in Animal Feed (FEEDAP) was asked to deliver a scientific opinion on the assessment of the application for renewal of authorisation of Lactiplantibacillus plantarum (formerly Lactobacillus plantarum) DSM 12837 as a technological additive for all animal species. The applicant has provided evidence that the additive currently in the market complies with the existing conditions of authorisation. There was no new evidence that would lead the FEEDAP Panel to reconsider its previous conclusions. Thus, the Panel concluded that the additive remains safe for all animal species, consumer and the environment under the authorised conditions of use. The additive was not irritant to skin and eyes but is considered a skin and respiratory sensitiser. The present application for renewal of the authorisation did not include a proposal for amending or supplementing the conditions of the original authorisation that would have an impact on the efficacy of the additive. Therefore, there was no need for assessing the efficacy of the additive in the context of the renewal of the authorisation.

Assessment of the feed additive consisting of Lactiplantibacillus plantarum (formerly Lactobacillus plantarum) DSM 12836 for all animal species for the renewal of its authorisation (Lactosan GmbH & Co KG)

Following a request from the European Commission, the Panel on Additives and Products or Substances used in Animal Feed (FEEDAP) was asked to deliver a scientific opinion on the assessment of the application for renewal of authorisation of Lactiplantibacillus plantarum (formerly Lactobacillus plantarum) DSM 12836, as a technological additive for all animal species. The applicant has provided evidence that the additive currently in the market complies with the existing conditions of authorisation. There was no new evidence that would lead the FEEDAP Panel to reconsider its previous conclusions. Thus, the Panel concluded that the additive remains safe for all animal species, consumer and the environment under the authorised conditions of use. The additive was not irritant to skin and eyes but is considered a skin and respiratory sensitiser. The present application for renewal of the authorisation did not include a proposal for amending or supplementing the conditions of the original authorisation that would have an impact on the efficacy of the additive. Therefore, there was no need for assessing the efficacy of the additive in the context of the renewal of the authorisation.

Assessment of the feed additive consisting of Lactiplantibacillus plantarum (formerly Lactobacillus plantarum) DSM 21762 for all animal species for the renewal of its authorisation (Lactosan GmbH & Co KG)

Following a request from the European Commission, the Panel on Additives and Products or Substances used in Animal Feed (FEEDAP) was asked to deliver a scientific opinion on the assessment of the application for renewal of authorisation of Lactiplantibacillus plantarum (formerly Lactobacillus plantarum) DSM 21762, as a technological additive for all animal species. The applicant has provided evidence that the additive currently in the market complies with the existing conditions of authorisation. There was no new evidence that would lead the FEEDAP Panel to reconsider its previous conclusions. Thus, the Panel concluded that the additive remains safe for all animal species, consumer and the environment under the authorised conditions of use. The additive was not irritant to skin and eyes but is considered a skin and respiratory sensitiser. The present application for renewal of the authorisation did not include a proposal for amending or supplementing the conditions of the original authorisation that would have an impact on the efficacy of the additive. Therefore, there was no need for assessing the efficacy of the additive in the context of the renewal of the authorisation.

Safety and efficacy of Lactobacillus buchneri DSM 29026 as a silage additive for all animal species

Following a request from the European Commission, the Panel on Additives and Products or Substances used in Animal Feed (FEEDAP) was asked to deliver a scientific opinion on Lactobacillus buchneri DSM 29026 when used as a technological additive to improve ensiling of forage. The additive is intended for use with all forages and for all animal species at a proposed minimum concentration of 1 × 10⁸ colony‐forming units (CFU)/kg forage if used alone, or 5 × 10⁷CFU/kg forage if used in combination with other authorised microorganisms. The bacterial species L. buchneri is considered by the EFSA to be suitable for the qualified presumption of safety approach to safety assessment. As the identity of the strain has been clearly established and no acquired antimicrobial resistance determinants of concern were detected, the use of the strain as a silage additive is considered safe for livestock species, for consumers of products from animals fed the treated silage and for the environment. In the absence of data, the FEEDAP Panel cannot conclude on the potential of the additive to be a skin/eye irritant or skin sensitiser. Given the proteinaceous nature of the active agent, the additive should be considered a respiratory sensitiser. The FEEDAP Panel concluded that Lactobacillus buchneri DSM 29026 at a minimum concentration of 5 × 10⁷CFU/kg may improve the production of silage from easy and moderately difficult to ensile forage material.

Safety of Lactococcus lactis NCIMB 30160 as a feed additive for all animal species

Following a request from European Commission, the Panel on Additives and Products or Substances used in Animal Feed (FEEDAP) was asked to deliver a scientific opinion on the safety for the environment of the proposed modification of the terms of the authorisation regarding the formulation of the additive Lactococcus lactis NCIMB 30160. The applicant has proposed to modify the manufacturing process by adding polyethylene glycol (PEG 4000) in the list of potential cryoprotectants that can be used in the freeze‐drying step, up to a maximum concentration of 0.025 mg PEG 4000/kg silage. The use of PEG 4000 as an excipient in formulations with Lactococcus lactis NCIMB 30160 would not change the previous conclusions regarding the safety for the target animals, consumers and users. No safety concerns are expected for the environment when PEG 4000 is used as a cryoprotectant in the additive Lactococcus lactis NCIMB 30160 up to a maximum concentration of 0.025 mg PEG 4000/kg silage.

Safety and efficacy of Bacillus licheniformis DSM 32457 as a silage additive for all animal species

Following a request from the European Commission, the Panel on Additives and Products or Substances used in Animal Feed (FEEDAP) was asked to deliver a scientific opinion on Bacillus licheniformis DSM 32457 as a silage additive for all animal species. Bacillus licheniformis DSM 32457 is presumed safe for the target species, consumers of products from animals fed treated silage and the environment. In the absence of data, the FEEDAP Panel cannot conclude on the potential of the additive to be a skin/eye irritant or skin sensitiser. Given the proteinaceous nature of the active agent, the additive should be considered a potential respiratory sensitiser. In the absence of appropriate data, the FEEDAP Panel cannot conclude on the efficacy of Bacillus licheniformis DSM 32457 as a silage additive.

Safety and efficacy of Lactobacillus parafarraginis DSM 32962 as a silage additive for all animal species

Following a request from the European Commission, the Panel on Additives and Products or Substances used in Animal Feed was asked to deliver a scientific opinion on the safety and efficacy of Lactobacillus parafarraginis DSM 32962 when used as a technological additive intended to improve the production of silage at a proposed application rate of 1 × 108 colony forming units (CFU)/kg fresh material. The bacterial species L. parafarraginis is considered by EFSA to be suitable for the qualified presumption of safety approach to safety assessment. As the identity of the strain has been clearly established and no acquired antimicrobial resistance determinants of concern were detected, the use of the strain as a silage additive is considered safe for livestock species, for consumers of products from animals fed the treated silage and for the environment. The additive is not an eye or dermal irritant but should be considered a potential respiratory sensitiser. No conclusions can be drawn on the skin sensitisation potential of the additive. Three studies with laboratory-scale silos were made using samples of easy and moderately difficult to ensile forage. In each case, replicate silos containing untreated forage were compared with identical silos containing the same forage to which Lactobacillus parafarraginis DSM 32962 was added to reach an intended concentration of 1 × 108 CFU/kg fresh matter. The results showed that the addition of the additive improves significantly the aerobic stability of the silage tested.

Assessment of the application for renewal of the authorisation of Pediococcus pentosaceus DSM 16244 as a feed additive for all animal species

Following a request from the European Commission, the Panel on Additives and Products or Substances used in Animal Feed (FEEDAP) was asked to deliver a scientific opinion on the assessment of the application for renewal of authorisation of Pediococcus pentosaceus DSM 16244 as a technological additive for all animal species. The applicant has provided evidence that the additive currently in the market complies with the existing conditions of authorisation. There was no new evidence that would lead the FEEDAP Panel to reconsider its previous conclusions. Thus, the Panel concluded that the additive remains safe for all animal species, consumer and the environment under the authorised conditions of use. The additive was not irritant to skin and eyes but considered a skin and respiratory sensitiser. The present application for renewal of the authorisation did not include a proposal for amending or supplementing the conditions of the original authorisation that would have an impact on the efficacy of the additive. Therefore, there was no need for assessing the efficacy of the additive in the context of the renewal of the authorisation.

Safety and efficacy of Lactobacillus rhamnosus CNCM I-3698 and Lactobacillus farciminis CNCM I-3699 as a feed additive for all animal species

Following a request from the European Commission, the EFSA Panel on Additives and products or Substances used in Animal Feed (FEEDAP) was asked to deliver a scientific opinion on the safety and efficacy of Lactobacillus rhamnosus CNCM I-3698 and Lactobacillus farciminis CNCM I-3699 when used as a silage additive in forage for all animal species. The additive is the result from the fermentation of milk-based broth with L. rhamnosus CNCM I-3698 and L. farciminis CNCM I-3699. It is intended to be used in easy and moderately difficult to ensile materials at a minimum proposed application rate of 2.5 × 107 and maximum 8 × 107 VFU/kg complete feed for all animal species. The data provided do not allow a full characterisation of the additive, and therefore, uncertainty remains on the nature of the product in terms of viability, on the ratio between the active agents and on the shelf-life of the additive. Both strains fulfil the requirements of the Qualified Presumption of Safety (QPS) approach to the assessment of safety and consequently, are presumed safe for the target animals, consumers of products from animals receiving the additive and the environment. The additive should be considered a respiratory sensitiser. In the absence of data, no conclusions can be drawn on the irritancy of the additive to skin and eyes or on its dermal sensitisation potential. No conclusions can be drawn on the efficacy of the additive to improve the ensiling process of easy and moderately difficult to ensile materials.

Safety of hexamethylene tetramine for pigs, poultry, bovines, sheep, goats, rabbits and horses

Following a request from the European Commission, the Panel on Additives and Products or Substances used in Animal Feed (FEEDAP) was asked to deliver a scientific opinion on hexamethylene tetramine (HMTA) for pigs, poultry, bovines, sheep, goats, rabbits and horses. In 2015, the FEEDAP Panel delivered an opinion on the safety and efficacy of HMTA. In that opinion, the Panel noted that the residues of HMTA in the silage amounted to about 5% of the inclusion level of 600 mg HMTA/kg fresh ensiling material. Since the HMTA residues in silage were analysed as formaldehyde, it was not possible to quantify the contribution of formaldehyde and HMTA to the residues. In the absence of a qualitative and quantitative characterisation of the residues, the Panel could not conclude on the safety of HMTA for the target species. Based on the results of a new study in which HMTA was measured in silage, the concentration of HMTA dropped below the limit of quantification of 6 mg HMTA/kg silage, which corresponds to ~ 1% of the HMTA inclusion level in the fresh ensiling material. However, the formaldehyde concentration was not analysed in the silage. In the absence of a qualitative and quantitative characterisation of the residues, the Panel cannot conclude on the safety of HMTA for the target species.

Safety and efficacy of Lactobacillus hilgardii CNCM I-4785 and Lactobacillus buchneri CNCM I-4323/NCIMB 40788 as a silage additive for all animal species

Following a request from the European Commission, the Panel on Additives and Products or Substances used in Animal Feed was asked to deliver a scientific opinion on the safety and efficacy of a strain of Lactobacillus hilgardii and of Lactobacillus buchneri when used as a technological additive intended to improve ensiling at a proposed application rate of 3.0 x 10⁸ colony forming units (CFU)/kg fresh material. The two bacterial species are considered by EFSA to be suitable for the qualified presumption of safety approach to safety assessment. In previous opinions the identity of the strains has been clearly established and no antibiotic resistance of concern was detected. Therefore, the use of the strains as a silage additive is considered safe for livestock species, for consumers of products from animals fed the treated silage and for the environment. In the absence of data, no conclusion can be drawn on the skin and eye irritancy or skin sensitisation of the additive. The additive should be considered a potential respiratory sensitiser. In a previous application, three studies involving both strains used in combination at the same concentration were made with samples of whole crop maize with varied dry matter content. The same studies have been submitted in this application. The Panel reiterates its previous conclusions that Lactobacillus hilgardii CNCM I-4785 and Lactobacillus buchneri NCIMB 40788/CNCM I-4323 at 1.5 × 10⁸ CFU of each active agent per kg of fresh forage, equivalent to 3 x 10⁸ CFU total lactobacilli/kg of forage significantly improve the aerobic stability of the silage.

Safety and efficacy of alpha-amylase from Bacillus amyloliquefaciens DSM 9553, Bacillus amyloliquefaciens NCIMB 30251, Aspergillus oryzae CBS 585.94 and Aspergillus oryzae ATTC SD-5374, endo-1,4-beta-glucanase from Trichoderma reesei ATCC PTA-10001, Trichoderma reesei ATCC SD-6331 and Aspergillus niger CBS 120604, endo-1,4-beta-xylanase from Trichoderma koningii MUCL 39203 and Trichoderma citrinoviride CBS 614.94 and endo-1,3(4)-beta-glucanase from Aspergillus tubingensis MUCL 39199 as silage additives for all animal species

A total of 11 enzymes were assessed including alpha‐amylase, endo‐1,4‐beta‐glucanase, endo‐1,4‐beta‐xylanase and endo‐1,3(4)‐beta‐glucanase as silage additives for all animal species. These enzymes are obtained by fermentation of bacterial or fungi non‐genetically modified production strains. Throughout information regarding the production strains of each product were provided, including the origin and history of modifications and allowing their identification. The identification was conclusive for 8 of 10 production strains. For three of the strains, more information/data would still be required in order to conclude. Three of the amylases are produced by bacterial strains that belong to a species that is considered by EFSA to be suitable for the Qualified Presumption of Safety approach to safety assessment. The identity of the strains has been established and the qualifications were met, and consequently, those products were regarded as safe. For the products derived from fungal strains, the strains or resulting products were tested for the presence of secondary metabolites which could be of toxicological concern. These were found to be below the limits of detection or the strain not capable of producing them. Considering all the information provided by the applicant, the Panel concluded that these products can be regarded as safe for the target species, consumer and the environment. In the absence of data, the Panel could not conclude on the skin and eye irritancy or skin sensitisation potential of the products under evaluation. These products should be considered to have the potential to be a respiratory sensitiser. For some of the products under evaluation, the Panel on Additives and Products or Substances used in Animal Feed (FEEDAP) concluded that they have a potential to improve the characteristic of the silage material; for some other products, the Panel could not conclude on their efficacy.

Safety and efficacy of Lactococcus lactis NCIMB 30160 as a feed additive for all animal species

Following a request from European Commission, the Panel on Additives and Products or Substances used in Animal Feed (FEEDAP) was asked to deliver a scientific opinion on the proposed modification of the terms of the authorisation regarding the formulation of the product Lactococcus lactis NCIMB 30160. The applicant has proposed to modify the manufacturing process by replacing one ingredient in the freeze-drying step with polyethylene glycol (PEG 4000), a product authorised in the EU as a food additive. The use of PEG 4000 as an excipient in formulations with Lactococcus lactis NCIMB 30160 would not change the previous conclusions regarding the safety for the target animals, consumers and users. The FEEDAP Panel concludes that the additive is safe for target species and for consumers of products from animals fed the treated silage. The additive is not a skin irritant but is a potential skin/respiratory sensitiser. In the absence of data, the Panel is unable to conclude on the safety for the environment of the proposed use of PEG 4000 as excipient in formulations of the additive. The FEEDAP Panel sees no reason to reconsider the conclusions on efficacy previously drawn that the additive containing L. lactis NCIMB 30160 has the potential to improve the production of silage from all forages by increasing lactic acid content and the preservation of dry matter, by reducing the pH and moderately the loss of protein, as determined by ammonia-N.

Safety and efficacy of Pediococcus pentosaceus DSM 32291 as a silage additive for all animal species

Following a request from the European Commission, the Panel on Additives and Products or Substances used in Animal Feed was asked to deliver a scientific opinion on the safety and efficacy of a strain of Pediococcus pentosaceus when used as a technological additive intended to improve ensiling at a proposed application rate of 5 × 10⁷ CFU kg/fresh matter. The species P. pentosaceus is considered by EFSA to be suitable for the qualified presumption of safety approach to safety assessment and not to require specific demonstration of safety other than the absence of resistance to antibiotics of human and veterinary significance. As the identity of the strain was clearly established and as no antibiotic resistance was detected, the use of the strain in the production of silage is presumed safe for livestock species, consumers of products from animals fed treated silage and the environment. In the absence of data, no conclusion can be drawn on the skin and eye irritancy of the additive. The additive should be considered a potential respiratory sensitiser. Pediococcus pentosaceus DSM 32291 at a minimum dose of 5 × 10⁷ CFU/kg has the potential to improve the production of silage from easy and moderately difficult to ensile materials by decreasing dry matter loss and protein degradation during ensiling.

Safety and efficacy of Lactobacillus buchneri NRRL B-50733 as a silage additive for all animal species

Following a request from the European Commission, the EFSA Panel on Additives and Products or Substances used in Animal Feed (FEEDAP), was asked to deliver a scientific opinion on the safety and efficacy of a strain of Lactobacillus buchneri when used as a technological additive intended to improve ensiling at a proposed application rate of 1 × 10⁸ colony forming units (CFU)/kg fresh material. The bacterial species L. buchneri is considered by EFSA to be suitable for the qualified presumption of safety approach to safety assessment. As the identity of the strain has been clearly established and as no antibiotic resistance of concern was detected, the use of the strain as a silage additive is considered safe for livestock species, for consumers of products from animals fed the treated silage and for the environment. In the absence of data, no conclusion can be drawn on the skin and eye irritancy or skin sensitisation of the additive. The additive should be considered a potential respiratory sensitiser. Three studies with laboratory‐scale silos were made using samples of easy, moderately difficult and difficult to ensile material. In each case, replicate silos containing untreated forage were compared with identical silos containing the same forage treated with the combination of Lactobacillus buchneri NRRL B‐50733 at an intended concentration of 1 × 10⁸ CFU/kg fresh matter. The results showed that the addition of Lactobacillus buchneri NRRL B‐50733 at 1 × 10⁸ CFU/kg fresh material has the potential to improve the aerobic stability of silage with a dry matter content ranging from 30% to 73%.

Safety and efficacy of Bacillus amyloliquefaciens (NCIMB 30229) as a silage additive for all animal species

The additive under assessment is a preparation of Bacillus amyloliquefaciens NCIMB 3022 intended for use as a technological additive in forages for all animal species at a proposed minimum dose of 5 × 10⁷ CFU/kg fresh materials. The species B. amyloliquefaciens is considered by EFSA to be suitable for the qualified presumption of safety approach to safety assessment. This approach requires the identification of the strain and evidence that it is not toxigenic and does not show acquired resistance to relevant antibiotics. In a previous assessment, the identity and susceptibility to clinically relevant antibiotics of the active agent was established but the lack of toxigenic potential could not be demonstrated. Therefore, the Panel on Additives and Products or Substances used in Animal Feed (FEEDAP) could not conclude on the safety of the product for target animals, consumers, users or the environment. In the same opinion, the potential of the additive to improve aerobic stability of silages at the proposed dose was not convincingly demonstrated. A new cytotoxicity study was conducted using methanol extracts. The methanol extract was cytotoxic at the inclusion level of 5%, while no cytotoxicity was observed at lower concentrations. The current guidance on Bacillus requires absence of toxic effect using the non-concentrated supernatant. Since the applicant was unable to determine the correlation between the methanol extracts and the Bacillus supernatant concentrations, the FEEDAP Panel is unable to conclude on the toxigenic potential of the strain based on the current data. An additional efficacy study with a similar protocol to the ones previously assessed was conducted. The study showed an improved aerobic stability when added to forage at the proposed dose. However, the FEEDAP Panel remains unable to conclude on the efficacy of the additive to improve the ensiling process on the basis of a single positive result.

Safety and efficacy of Lactobacillus hilgardii CNCM I-4785 as a silage additive for all animal species

Following a request from the European Commission, the Panel on Additives and Products or Substances used in Animal Feed was asked to deliver a scientific opinion on the safety and efficacy of a strain of Lactobacillus hilgardii when used as a technological additive intended to improve ensiling at a proposed application rate of 1.5 × 10⁸ colony‐forming units (CFU)/kg fresh material. The bacterial species L. hilgardii is considered by EFSA to be suitable for the qualified presumption of safety approach to safety assessment. As the identity of the strain has been clearly established and as no antibiotic resistance of concern was detected, the use of the strain as a silage additive is considered safe for livestock species, for consumers of products from animals fed the treated silage and for the environment. In the absence of data, no conclusion can be drawn on the skin and eye irritancy or skin sensitisation of the additive. The additive should be considered as a potential respiratory sensitiser. Three studies with laboratory‐scale silos were made using samples of easy and moderately difficult to ensile forage. In each case, replicate silos containing untreated forage were compared with identical silos containing the same forage treated with the combination of Lactobacillus hilgardii CNCM I‐4785 and Lactobacillus buchneri NCIMB 40788 each at an intended concentration of 1.5 × 10⁸ CFU/kg fresh matter each. The results showed that the addition of Lactobacillus hilgardii CNCM I‐4785 at the proposed dose, when used in combination with an equal concentration of Lactobacillus buchneri NCIMB 40788, improves significantly the aerobic stability of the silage tested. This was shown in maize forage with a dry matter content ranging from 30% to 40%.

Safety and efficacy of Pediococcus parvulus DSM 28875 as a silage additive for all animal species

The Panel on Additives and Products or Substances used in Animal Feed (FEEDAP) was asked to deliver a scientific opinion on the safety and efficacy of a specific strain of Pediococcus parvulus when used as a technological additive intended to improve ensiling at a proposed application rate of 1 × 10⁸ CFU/kg fresh matter. The species P. parvulus is considered by EFSA to be suitable for the qualified presumption of safety approach to safety assessment and not to require specific demonstration of safety other than the absence of resistance to antibiotics of human and veterinary significance. As the identity of the strain was clearly established and as no antibiotic resistance was detected, the use of the strain in the production of silage is presumed safe for livestock species, consumers of products from animals fed treated silage and the environment. In the absence of data, no conclusion can be drawn on the skin and eye irritancy or skin sensitisation of the additive. The additive should be considered as a potential respiratory sensitiser. Five studies with laboratory‐scale silos were made using forage of differing water‐soluble carbohydrate content. Replicate silos containing forages treated at the proposed application rate were compared to identical silos containing the same but untreated forage. The minisilos were then stored for 90–103 days at 20–24°C. After opening, the contents of the silos were analysed. Results showed that Pediococcus parvulus DSM 28875 at 5 × 10⁷ CFU/kg forage has the potential to improve the production of silage from easy and moderately difficult to ensile forage species by reducing dry matter loss and enhancing protein preservation.

Safety and efficacy of Lactobacillus casei DSM 28872 as a silage additive for all animal species

Following a request from the European Commission, the Panel on Additives and Products or Substances used in Animal Feed was asked to deliver a scientific opinion on the safety and efficacy of a strain of Lactobacillus casei when used as a technological additive intended to improve ensiling at a proposed application rate of 1 × 10⁸ CFU (when used alone) or 5 × 10⁷ CFU (when used in combination) kg/fresh matter. The species L. casei is considered by EFSA to be suitable for the qualified presumption of safety approach to safety assessment and not to require specific demonstration of safety other than the absence of resistance to antibiotics of human and veterinary significance. As the identity of the strain was clearly established and as no antibiotic resistance was detected, the use of the strain in the production of silage is presumed safe for livestock species, consumers of products from animals fed treated silage and the environment. In the absence of data, no conclusion can be drawn on the skin and eye irritancy of the additive. The additive should be considered to have the potential to be a respiratory sensitiser. Five studies with laboratory‐scale silos were made using forage of differing water‐soluble carbohydrate content. Replicate silos containing forages treated at the proposed application rate were compared to identical silos containing the same but untreated forage. The mini‐silos were stored for 90 days at 20–24°C. At the end of the ensiling period, the content of the silos was analysed and dry matter losses determined. Results showed that the L. casei strain applied at a minimum dose of 5 × 10⁷ CFU/kg has the potential to improve the production of silage from easy and moderately difficult to ensile forage species by reducing dry matter loss and enhancing protein preservation.

Safety and efficacy of Lactobacillus rhamnosus DSM 29226 as a silage additive for all animal species

Following a request from the European Commission, the Panel on Additives and Products or Substances used in Animal Feed was asked to deliver a scientific opinion on the safety and efficacy of a strain of Lactobacillus rhamnosus when used as a technological additive intended to improve ensiling at a proposed application rate of 5.0 × 10⁷ colony-forming units (CFU)/kg fresh material. The bacterial species L. rhamnosus is considered by EFSA to be suitable for the qualified presumption of safety approach to safety assessment. As the identity of the strain has been clearly established and as no antibiotic resistance of concern was detected, the use of the strain as a silage additive is considered safe for livestock species, for consumers of products from animals fed the treated silage and for the environment. In the absence of data, no conclusion can be drawn on the skin and eye irritancy or skin sensitisation of the additive. The additive should be considered as a potential respiratory sensitiser. Seven studies with laboratory-scale silos were made using samples of forage of differing dry matter and water-soluble carbohydrate content. In each case, replicate silos containing treated forage were compared with identical silos containing the same but untreated forage. The results showed that the additive has the potential to improve the production of silage from easy and moderately difficult to ensile forage species by reducing dry matter loss and enhancing protein preservation. This was shown at the proposed application rate of 5 × 10⁷ CFU/kg forage.

Safety and efficacy of Lactobacillus plantarum DSM 29024 as a silage additive for all animal species

Following a request from the European Commission, the EFSA FEEDAP Panel (EFSA Panel on Additives and Products or Substances used in Animal Feed) was asked to deliver a scientific opinion on the safety and efficacy of a strain of Lactobacillus plantarum when used as a technological additive intended to improve the ensiling process at a minimum proposed dose of 5.0 × 10⁷ colony‐forming units (CFU)/kg fresh material. The bacterial species L. plantarum is considered by EFSA to be suitable for the qualified presumption of safety approach to safety assessment. As the identity of the strain has been clearly established and as no antibiotic resistance of concern was detected, the use of the strain as a silage additive is considered safe for livestock species, for consumers of products from animals fed the treated silage and for the environment. In the absence of data, no conclusion can be drawn on the skin and eye irritancy or skin sensitisation of the additive. The additive should be considered as a potential respiratory sensitiser. Seven studies with laboratory‐scale silos were made using samples of forage of differing dry matter and water‐soluble carbohydrate content. In each case, replicate silos containing treated forage were compared with identical silos containing the same but untreated forage. The results showed that the additive has the potential to improve the production of silage from easy and moderately difficult to ensile forage species by reducing the pH and increasing lactic acid concentration and protein preservation. This was shown at the proposed application rate of 5 × 10⁷ CFU/kg forage.