Scientific Opinion on the safety of a manganese chelate of hydroxy analogue of methionine (Mintrex®Mn) as feed additive for all species

Following a request from the European Commission, the European Food Safety Authority (EFSA) was asked to deliver an opinion on the safety for the target animals and consumers of Mintrex®Mn as nutritional additive for all species taking into account the earlier opinions on the product and the supplementary data provided by the applicant. Tolerance studies in piglets, laying hens and calves for rearing were submitted. In piglets, effects of manganese on hematological and biochemical parameters were observed, irrespective of the manganese source. In laying hens there was sufficient evidence to conclude that zootechnical parameters were unaffected by the manganese supplementation and source at an overdose. In calves for rearing there were no indications to suggest that Mintrex®Mn is less safe compared to manganese sulfate. Taking also into account the already assessed safety of Mintrex®Mn for chickens for fattening, the Panel on Additives and Products or Substances used in Animal Feed (FEEDAP) concluded that Mintrex®Mn is safe for all species up to the maximum total manganese content authorised in feed. Mintrex®Mn did not induce significant changes in manganese deposition in edible tissues and products (piglet muscle, liver and kidney; hen's eggs; cow's milk) compared with already authorised inorganic manganese sources. Therefore, an increased manganese exposure of the consumers due to the use of Mintrex®Mn is not expected. The FEEDAP Panel concludes that the use of Mintrex®Mn up to the maximum authorised total manganese content in complete feeds is safe for consumers.