The European Food Safety Authority (EFSA) has published a scientific opinion on 22 May 2026 concluding that a feed additive consisting of l-valine produced with Corynebacterium glutamicum CCTCC M 20232578 is safe for all animal species. The opinion, requested by the European Commission and prepared by EFSA's Panel on Additives and Products or Substances used in Animal Feed (FEEDAP), assesses the safety and efficacy of the additive proposed by Kempex Holland B.V.
The additive is intended to be used as a nutritional supplement to meet the amino acid requirements of livestock and aquaculture species. EFSA's evaluation found that the production strain and the final product pose no safety concerns for target animals, consumers of animal products, or the environment, provided the additive is used under the proposed conditions. The opinion also confirms the additive's efficacy as a source of l-valine, an essential amino acid.
No prior coverage of this specific application exists in recent months. The opinion is part of EFSA's ongoing work to evaluate feed additives under Regulation (EC) No 1831/2003, which sets out a pre-market authorisation system for feed additives in the EU.
Stakeholder impact For livestock and aquaculture producers, the positive opinion paves the way for a new source of l-valine, potentially improving feed formulation flexibility and cost efficiency. The additive's manufacturer, Kempex Holland B.V., stands to benefit from market access if the European Commission grants authorisation following EFSA's recommendation. Consumer and environmental groups may note that the opinion found no residues of concern in edible tissues and no environmental risk, addressing common safety questions. However, the opinion does not address potential economic impacts on competing amino acid producers or the broader feed additive market.
Institutional follow-up The European Commission will now consider EFSA's opinion in the comitology procedure, where Member State representatives vote on a draft regulation authorising the additive. If approved, the additive will be included in the EU Register of Feed Additives, allowing its placement on the market across all Member States.
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