Scientific Opinion on the safety and efficacy of L-valine (ValAMINO®) produced by Corynebacterium glutamicum (DSM 25202) for all animal species, based on a dossier submitted by Evonik Industries AG

The product L-valine, feed grade (ValAMINO®), is a feed additive produced by fermentation with a genetically modified strain of Corynebacterium glutamicum (DSM 25202). Neither the production strain nor its recombinant DNA was detected in the final product. Therefore, the final product does not give rise to any safety concerns with regard to the genetic modification. The additive L-valine, feed grade, produced by C. glutamicum (DSM 25202) is safe for all target animals when supplemented in appropriate amounts to feed to compensate for valine deficiency in feedingstuffs. The composition of tissues and products of animal origin will not be changed by the use of L-valine, feed grade, in animal nutrition. Considering the high purity of the product under assessment, no risks to the consumer are expected from its use as a feed additive. In the absence of specific data on user safety for the product under application, it would be prudent to consider it as an irritant to the skin, eyes and mucous membranes and as a potential dermal sensitiser. In the absence of any data on inhalation toxicity, the product is also regarded as potentially harmful by inhalation. The amino acid L-valine is a natural component of proteins of living organisms. Therefore, the use of the highly purified product L-valine, feed grade, in animal nutrition does not pose a risk to the environment. The product L-valine, feed grade, is an efficacious source of supplemented amino acid for all species, but it has a low efficiency in ruminants unless it is used in a protected form.