Safety and efficacy of a feed additive consisting of l‐valine produced by Corynebacterium glutamicum CGMCC 7.366 for all animal species (Ningxia Eppen Biotech Co., Ltd.)

Following a request from the European Commission, the Panel on Additives and Products or Substances used in Animal Feed (FEEDAP) was asked to deliver a scientific opinion on the safety and efficacy of the feed additive consisting of l‐valine produced by fermentation using a non‐genetically modified strain of Corynebacterium glutamicum (CGMCC 7.366). The additive is intended to be used in feed and water for drinking for all animal species and categories. The production strain is considered suitable for the qualified presumption of safety (QPS) approach to safety assessment. The FEEDAP Panel concludes that l‐valine produced using C. glutamicum CGMCC 7.366 is safe for the target species when supplemented in appropriate amounts to the diet according to the nutritional needs of the target species. The FEEDAP Panel has concerns on the use of amino acids in water for drinking for hygienic reasons, and due to the risk of imbalances when administered simultaneously via feed. The use of l‐valine produced using C. glutamicum CGMCC 7.366 in animal nutrition is considered safe for the consumer and for the environment. No conclusion could be drawn on the potential of l‐valine produced using C. glutamicum CGMCC 7.366 to be toxic by inhalation, irritant to the skin or eyes, or a dermal sensitiser due to the lack of data. The additive l‐valine produced by fermentation using C. glutamicum CGMCC 7.366 is regarded as an efficacious source of the essential amino acid l‐valine for non‐ruminant nutrition. For the supplemental l‐valine to be as efficacious in ruminants as in non‐ruminant species, it requires protection against degradation in the rumen.