Europe Authorizes 2-Acetylfuran and 2-Pentylfuran as Feed Additives for All Animal Species

The European Commission has issued a new regulation, COMMISSION IMPLEMENTING REGULATION (EU) 2023/1707, dated September 7, 2023, concerning the authorization of 2-acetylfuran and 2-pentylfuran as feed additives for all animal species. This regulation falls under the framework of Regulation (EC) No 1831/2003 on additives for use in animal nutrition.

The substances 2-acetylfuran and 2-pentylfuran were originally authorized without a time limit under Directive 70/524/EEC as feed additives for all animal species. Subsequently, they were listed in the Register of feed additives as existing products in accordance with Article 10(1)(b) of Regulation (EC) No 1831/2003.

An application for the re-evaluation of these substances for all animal species was submitted in accordance with Article 10(2) of Regulation (EC) No 1831/2003, with the request to classify them in the additive category 'sensory additives' and the functional group 'flavouring compounds.' Notably, the applicant initially requested authorization for use in drinking water, but this was withdrawn due to regulatory constraints.

The European Food Safety Authority (EFSA) conducted a comprehensive review and concluded that under the proposed conditions of use, 2-acetylfuran and 2-pentylfuran are safe for animals, consumers, and the environment. However, it noted that these additives should be considered irritants to the skin, eyes, and the respiratory tract, as well as dermal and respiratory sensitizers. EFSA also affirmed their efficacy in flavoring feed and determined that specific post-market monitoring requirements were unnecessary.

Based on EFSA's findings, the European Commission has authorized the use of 2-acetylfuran and 2-pentylfuran as feed additives for all animal species, categorizing them as 'sensory additives' and 'flavouring compounds,' subject to the conditions specified in the regulation. The Commission has also recommended a maximum content of the active substance per kilogram of complete feedingstuff, with a moisture content of 12%, and outlined labeling requirements.

To ensure a smooth transition, the regulation includes transitional measures, allowing substances and premixtures produced and labeled before March 28, 2024, to continue to be placed on the market and used until existing stocks are depleted.

Link to: EU Commission Implementing Regulation (EU) 2023/1707 of 7 September 2023 concerning the authorisation of 2-acetylfuran and 2-pentylfuran as feed additives for all animal species