Safety and efficacy of a feed additive consisting of acetic acid for all animal species

In 2012, the EFSA Panel on Additives and Products or Substances used in Animal Feed (FEEDAP) issued an opinion on the safety and efficacy of acetic acid when used as a technological additive (preservative) for all animal species. The characterisation and condition of use of the additive are the same as those already assessed by the FEEDAP Panel in the previous opinion on acetic acid. Acetic acid produced with the new manufacturing process complies with the specifications set by Commission Regulation (EU) No 231/2012. The FEEDAP Panel considers that the conclusions reached in the previous assessment apply to the acetic acid produced by the new manufacturing process. The FEEDAP Panel concluded that the additive is considered safe for poultry, pigs and pet animals at a maximum concentration of 2.5 g acetic acid/kg complete feed (or 1 g/L water for drinking). The known high endogenous production of acetic acid in the ruminants shows that the tolerance of these target animals is considerably higher. No data is available for salmonids. The use of the additive in animal nutrition is of no concern for consumer safety. The risks for users handling the additive depend on the concentration and include skin, eyes, and respiratory tract irritation (10-25% solution) and corrosion (> 25% solution). The use of the additive as a feed additive is considered safe for the environment. The Panel concluded that the additive has a potential to be efficacious as preservative in feedingstuffs and water for drinking. The FEEDAP Panel has some reservations about the effectiveness of acetic acid as preservative in dry feedingstuffs with a typical moisture content of ≤ 12%.