Safety evaluation of the food enzyme β‐galactosidase from the genetically modified Aspergillus niger strain TOL

The food enzyme β‐galactosidase (β‐D‐galactoside galactohydrolase; EC 3.2.1.23) is produced with the genetically modified Aspergillus niger strain TOL by DSM Food Specialties B.V. The genetic modifications did not give rise to safety concerns. The food enzyme was considered free from viable cells of the production organism and recombinant DNA. The food enzyme is intended to be used in whey processing. Dietary exposure to the food enzyme total organic solids (TOS) was estimated to be up to 0.197 mg TOS/kg body weight (bw) per day in European populations. The toxicity studies were carried out with an asparaginase from A. niger strain ASP. The Panel considered this food enzyme as a suitable substitute for the β‐galactosidase to be used in the toxicological studies, because the genetic differences between the production strains are not expected to result in a different toxigenic potential and the raw materials and manufacturing processes of both food enzymes are comparable. Genotoxicity tests did not raise a safety concern. The systemic toxicity was assessed by means of a repeated dose 90‐day oral toxicity study in rats. The Panel identified a no observed adverse effect level of 1,038 mg TOS/kg bw per day, the highest dose tested. This results in a margin of exposure of at least 5,269. A search for similarity of the amino acid sequence of the food enzyme to known allergens was made and no match was found. The Panel considered that, under the intended conditions of use, the risk of allergic reactions by dietary exposure cannot be excluded, but the likelihood for this to occur is considered low. Based on the data provided, the Panel concluded that this food enzyme does not give rise to safety concerns under the intended conditions of use.