Scientific Opinion on the safety and efficacy of Saccharomyces cerevisiae (NBRC 0203), Lactobacillus plantarum (NBRC 3070) and Lactobacillus casei (NBRC 3425) as a silage additive for all species

The mixture consisting of single strains of Saccharomyces cerevisiae, Lactobacillus plantarum and Lactobacillus casei is intended for use as a technological additive to improve the production of silage. Since growth medium is simultaneously inoculated with all three organisms, there is only limited control of the production system. Consequently, the qualitative composition of the additive mixture is only partially known at the point of production and may change further on storage. The species S. cerevisiae, L. plantarum and L. casei are considered by EFSA to be suitable for the qualified presumption of safety approach to safety assessment. As the identity of all strains was clearly established and as no antibiotic resistance of concern was detected, the use of the strains in the production of silage is presumed safe for livestock, consumers of products from animals fed the treated silage and the environment. There is a potential for users to be exposed dermally and via inhalation with subsequent risks of skin and eye/respiratory irritation, and skin and respiratory sensitisation. The efficacy studies described provided no evidence that the additive containing S. cerevisiae, L. plantarum and L. casei has the potential to improve the production of silage. Although there was some evidence for an effect on aerobic stability, because of the inherent variability of the additive mix an effective dose could not be established.