Assessment of the feed additive consisting of lasalocid A sodium (Avatec® 150G) for turkeys, pheasants, guinea fowl, quails and partridges except laying birds thereof for the renewal of its authorisation (Zoetis Belgium SA)

Abstract

Following a request from the European Commission, EFSA was asked to deliver a scientific opinion on the safety and efficacy of lasalocid A sodium (Avatec® 150G) as a coccidiostat for turkeys, pheasants, guinea fowl, quails and partridges. The additive currently on the market complies with the existing conditions of authorisation. The FEEDAP Panel was not in a position to conclude on the safety of the additive for the target species. The use of lasalocid A sodium at the highest proposed level of 125 mg/kg complete feed for turkeys up to 16 weeks of life and in growing pheasants, partridges, quails and guinea fowl remains safe for the consumer under the current conditions of the authorisation. The proposed reduction of the withdrawal time to 3 days is considered safe for the consumer. The existing maximum residue levels (MRLs) for poultry tissues ensure consumer safety. The additive is irritant to the skin and eye and the respiratory tract, but it is not a dermal sensitiser. Exposure of the users by any route is considered a risk. The use of the additive at the proposed conditions of use does not pose a risk for the terrestrial and aquatic compartments nor to sediment. No concern for groundwater is expected. The additive is unlikely to bioaccumulate and the risk for secondary poisoning is considered low. Lasalocid A sodium from Avatec® 150G has the potential to control coccidiosis in turkeys for fattening, turkeys reared for reproduction and pheasants at the minimum use level of 75 mg/kg complete feed. The data provided do not allow the Panel to conclude on the coccidiostatic effect of the additive in guinea fowl, quails and partridges.