Assessment of the feed additive consisting of Bacillus velezensis ATCC PTA-6737 (PB6) for the renewal of its authorisation for laying hens and minor poultry species for laying (4b1823) and its extension of use to other laying/breeding birds (Kemin Europa n.v.)

Abstract

Following a request from the European Commission, EFSA was asked to deliver a scientific opinion on the safety and efficacy of a feed additive consisting of Bacillus velezensis ATCC PTA-6737 (PB6) as a zootechnical feed additive. With the current application, the applicant is seeking the renewal of the authorisation for laying hens and minor poultry species for laying. In addition, the applicant is seeking the modification of the terms of the existing authorisation to obtain the authorisation of a more concentrated form of the additive (from 1 × 10¹⁰ to 8 × 10¹⁰ colony forming units (CFU)) and the authorisation of the additive for other birds kept for egg production or breeding. The evidence provided showed that the additive complies with the new specifications and the current terms of the authorisation. The FEEDAP Panel concludes that the additive is safe for laying hens, birds kept for egg production or breeding, the consumer and the environment. Regarding safety for the user, the additive is not irritant to the skin and eyes but should be considered a skin and respiratory sensitiser and inhalation and dermal exposure is considered a risk. The additive has the potential to be efficacious in other birds kept for egg production or breeding at the minimum inclusion level of 1 × 10⁸ CFU/kg complete feed.