EU reviews new feed additive L-histidine for all animal species

An application has been submitted for the authorisation of a new feed additive under EU regulations. The product, L-histidine monohydrochloride monohydrate, is produced using Escherichia coli CCTCC M 20241089. If approved, it could be used for all animal species in compound feed, premixtures, and drinking water. The applicant proposes two methods for measuring histidine levels. For the feed additive and premixtures, they suggest the EN ISO 17180 method. For compound feed and water, they recommend the EU method. The European Union Reference Laboratory (EURL) supports these choices, also endorsing the EU method for compound feed and water.

Testing results show variability in histidine measurements. Repeatability, which checks consistency within the same lab, ranges from 2.4 % to 7.0 % relative standard deviation (RSD). Reproducibility, assessing consistency across different labs, varies between 12.9 % and 23.3 % RSD for animal feedingstuffs. The feed additive must contain at least 98.0 % L-histidine monohydrochloride monohydrate by dry weight. To confirm its identity, the EURL advises using the *L-histidine monohydrochloride monograph* from the Food Chemical Codex (FCC). If authorised, the additive could be added directly to compound feed or administered via premixtures and drinking water.

The application covers all animal species and relies on established testing methods. Authorisation would allow the additive’s use in multiple forms, including feed and water. The EURL’s recommendations on identification and measurement methods will guide further evaluation.