Scientific Opinion on modification of the terms of authorisation of VevoVitall® (Benzoic acid) as a feed additive for weaned piglets

VevoVitall® is a feed additive consisting of benzoic acid. It is currently authorised as zootechnical additive for weaned piglets and pigs for fattening. The applicant is now seeking for the modification of the terms of authorisation for weaned piglets, laid down in Commission Regulation (EC) No 1730/2006. The applicant proposes to modify the text of the “Other provisions” in the authorisation by deleting the sentences “Complementary feedingstuffs for piglets may not contain more than 10000 mg/kg of benzoic acid” and “The additive shall be incorporated in compound feedingstuffs in form of a premixture” and replacing them with “Complementary feedingstuffs for piglets should be thoroughly mixed with other feed materials of the daily ration”. Based on the similar coefficients of variation achieved for benzoic acid concentration after direct incorporation or incorporation via premixtures, the FEEDAP Panel concludes that there is no reason to restrict the inclusion of benzoic acid to compound feed via premixtures. In the view of the FEEDAP Panel, the restrictions on the use of the additive in complementary feed established for pigs for fattening by Commission Regulation (EC) No 1138/2007, are considered sufficient in respect to the narrow margin of safety of the compound and should be applied to weaned piglets.