Assessment of the feed additive consisting of bentonite (dioctahedral montmorillonite) as an anticaking agent for all animal species and as a substance for reduction of the contamination of feed by mycotoxins for pigs, poultry and ruminants for the renewal of its authorisation (BASF SE)

Following a request from the European Commission, EFSA was asked to deliver a scientific opinion on the renewal of bentonite as a technological feed additive in the functional groups of anticaking agents for all animal species and of substances for reduction of the contamination of feed by mycotoxins for pigs, poultry and ruminants. The applicant has provided evidence that the additive currently on the market complies with the existing conditions of authorisation. There is no evidence that would lead the FEEDAP Panel to reconsider its previous conclusions. Thus, the Panel concluded that the additive remains safe for the target species, consumers and the environment under the authorised conditions of use. Regarding user safety, the Panel concludes that bentonite is not irritant to skin but mildly irritant to eyes and is a skin and respiratory sensitiser. Exposure of users by any route is considered a risk and should be minimised. There is no need for assessing the efficacy of the additive in the context of the renewal of the authorisation.