Scientific Opinion on the safety and efficacy of Suilectin ^TM ( Phaseolus vulgaris lectins) as a zootechnical additive for suckling piglets (performance enhancer)

The active substance of Suilectin™ is a mixture of five phytohaemagglutinin (PHA) isoforms. The Panel on Additives and Products or Substances used in Animal Feed (FEEDAP) considers that the haemagglutination activity (measured by haemagglutinating units (HAUs)) does not reflect the biological activity of the additive in a comprehensive way. The additive is intended only for aqueous suspension in water for drinking or in liquid complementary feed for suckling piglets. The FEEDAP Panel concludes that the additive is safe for suckling piglets when used under the proposed conditions of use of 220 HAU/piglet for three days. The Panel also considers that there are no reasons to expect that the dose of 660 HAU/piglet in a single administration would not be safe. The use of Suilectin in accordance with the conditions of use proposed by the applicant is considered to be of no concern for the health of the consumer. Suilectin is not an irritant to skin or eyes and is not a skin sensitiser. However, considering its physical and toxicological properties, there is a potential hazard by inhalation exposure. Considering that PHAs are immunogenic substances, the additive should be considered to be a respiratory sensitiser. The additive is a natural plant substance and its use will not result in a substantial increase in concentration in the environment. Therefore there are no safety concerns for the environment. The FEEDAP Panel cannot conclude on the efficacy of the additive in suckling piglets.