Safety and efficacy of a feed additive consisting of a tincture derived from the buds of Pinus sylvestris L. (pine tincture) for use in all animal species (FEFANA abl)

Following a request from the European Commission, EFSA was asked to deliver a scientific opinion on the safety and efficacy of a tincture from the buds of Pinus sylvestris L. (pine tincture) when used as a sensory additive in feed and water for drinking for all animal species. The product under assessment is a ■■■■■ solution, with a dry matter content of ~ 2.2%. The product contains on average 0.0882% polyphenols, of which 0.0222% are phenolic acids. The Panel on Additives and Products or Substances used in Animal Feed (FEEDAP) concluded that pine tincture is safe at the maximum proposed use level of 50 mg/kg complete feed for all animal species. The FEEDAP Panel considers that the use in water for drinking alone or in combination with use in feed should not exceed the daily amount that is considered safe when consumed via feed alone. No safety concern would arise for the consumer from the use of pine tincture up to the maximum proposed use level in feed. Pine tincture should be considered as irritant to skin and eyes, and as a dermal and respiratory sensitiser. The use of pine tincture in animal feed was not expected to pose a risk for the environment. Since twigs of P. sylvestris, which are considered similar in composition to the source material for the production of pine tincture, are described to flavour food, no further demonstration of efficacy is deemed necessary.