Safety and efficacy of vitamin B2 (riboflavin and riboflavin 5’-phosphate ester monosodium salt) produced by Bacillus subtilis for all animal species based on a dossier submitted by DSM

Riboflavin is produced by two genetically modified Bacillus subtilis strains. Neither the production strains nor their recombinant DNA were detected in the final riboflavin products. Riboflavin 5’-phosphate sodium is prepared by phosphorylation of riboflavin. The additives are safe for target animals with a wide margin of safety provided that the current use levels for riboflavin are not exceeded. Toxicological studies with the additive under assessment show that it has a low toxicity and do not indicate a genotoxic potential. The use of the additives in animal nutrition will not significantly alter the riboflavin content of food of animal origin. The EFSA Panel on Additives and Products or Substances used in Animal Feed (FEEDAP) considers that the use of the additives in animal nutrition is not of safety concern for consumers. The additives containing riboflavin and riboflavin 5’-phosphate sodium are not irritant to skin and eyes. In the absence of data, the FEEDAP Panel cannot conclude on skin sensitisation. Riboflavin is a recognised photosensitiser, which may elicit skin and eye photoallergic reactions. Workers might be exposed to a respirable dust when handling riboflavin and riboflavin 5’-phosphate sodium; in the absence of data on inhalation toxicity, the FEEDAP Panel cannot conclude on a possible risk by inhalation. The use of riboflavin and riboflavin 5’-phosphate sodium in animal nutrition does not pose a risk to the environment. The additives are regarded as an effective source of riboflavin in covering the animal’s requirement when administered orally.

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