Assessment of the feed additives consisting of formic acid (1k236) and sodium formate (1k237) for all animal species for the renewal of their authorisations (BASF SE, Perstorp AB, Taminco Finland Oy)

Abstract

Following a request from the European Commission, EFSA was asked to deliver a scientific opinion on the safety and efficacy of formic acid and sodium formate as technological additives for all animal species for the renewal of their authorisations. The applicants provided evidence that the additive currently in the market complies with the existing conditions of the authorisation. The FEEDAP Panel (EFSA Scientific Panel on Additives and Products or Substances used in Animal Feed) concluded that the use of the feed additives formic acid and sodium formate in animal nutrition remains safe for the target animals, consumer and for the environment under the approved conditions of the authorisation. Regarding the safety for the user, formic acid is corrosive. Exposure of users by any route is considered a risk. The additive sodium formate in solid form is not irritant to skin but irritant to the eyes and respiratory tract and it is a skin and respiratory sensitiser. The additive sodium formate in liquid form is irritant to the skin and eyes and respiratory tract. Exposure of users by any route is considered a risk and should be minimised. There is no need for assessing the efficacy of the additive in the context of the renewal of the authorisation.