Scientific opinion on the safety and efficacy of Natugrain® TS (endo-1,4-beta-xylanase and endo-1,4-beta-glucanase) as a feed additive for pigs for fattening

Natugrain® TS is an enzyme preparation that contains endo-1,4-beta-xylanase and endo-1,4-beta-glucanase, produced by two genetically modified strains of Aspergillus niger. This product is currently authorised for use in piglets (weaned), poultry species and ornamental birds as a zootechnical additive under the functional group of digestibility enhancers. The applicant is now seeking for the extension of its use as a zootechnical additive for pigs for fattening at a dose range of 560 to 840 TXU (thermostable xylanase units) and 250 to 375 TGU (thermostable glucanase units) per kg feed. Since the product has been demonstrated to be safe in piglets at the maximum recommended dose, the Panel on Additives and Products or Substances used in Animal Feed (FEEDAP) considers that this conclusion can be extended to pigs for fattening, provided that the same maximum dose applies. In two long-term trials, Natugrain® TS significantly improved the performance of the pigs for fattening at the minimum recommended dose (560 TXU and 250 TGU/kg feed). In a balance trial, the metabolisable energy content of the diet was significantly improved by the addition of Natugrain® TS in feed at the minimum recommended dose. Therefore, the FEEDAP Panel concludes that Natugrain® TS at the minimum recommended dose (560 TXU and 250 TGU/kg feed) has the potential to be efficacious in pigs for fattening.