Scientific Opinion on the modification of the terms of authorisation of Quantum™ (6-phytase) as a feed additive for laying hens

The additive QuantumTM is an enzyme preparation containing 6-phytase produced by fermentation of a genetically modified strain of the yeast Pichia pastoris. The efficacy and safety of this product for chickens for fattening, laying hens, turkeys for fattening, ducks for fattening and piglets (weaned) including the assessment of the safety for the consumer, the user and the environment, as well as the safety aspects of the genetic modification have already been previously assessed by EFSA. The applicant is now asking for a modification on the terms of authorisation of the feed additive when used in laying hens, by lowering the minimum recommended dose from 2000 FTU/kg to 250 FTU/kg. Two trials showed clear improvements in P retention when QuantumTM was supplemented at 125 FTU/kg and above, including a dose of 250 FTU/kg. Despite some weaknesses in the design of the experiment, data from a third trial is considered to support the dose-effect relationship seen in the other two trials. Therefore, the FEEDAP Panel concludes that there is evidence that the enzyme preparation QuantumTM is efficacious in laying hens at a minimum dose of 250 FTU/kg.