Safety and efficacy of a feed additive consisting of perlite for all terrestrial animal species (IMERYS Talc Europe)

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 perlite as a technological feed additive for all terrestrial animal species. The FEEDAP Panel concluded that perlite is considered safe at 20,000 mg/kg complete feed for the use in feed for poultry for fattening or reared for laying/reproduction, ornamental birds, piglets (suckling and weaned) and pigs for fattening. No conclusion could be drawn on the safety of the product for the rest of terrestrial species/categories. The Panel concluded that the use of perlite is safe for the consumers and the environment. The Panel also concluded that the additive is not irritant to skin or eyes, but it is considered a dermal and respiratory sensitiser. Exposure by dermal and inhalation routes is considered a risk and should be minimised. The FEEDAP Panel concluded that perlite is efficacious as an anticaking agent in feed for terrestrial animal species.