Assessment of the feed additive consisting of coated granulated cobalt(II) carbonate for ruminants with functional rumen, equidae, lagomorphs, rodents, herbivore reptiles and[...]

Following a request from the European Commission, EFSA was asked to deliver a scientific opinion on the safety and efficacy of coated granulated cobalt(II) carbonate as nutritional feed additive for ruminants with functional rumen, equidae, lagomorphs, rodents, herbivore reptiles and zoo mammals. The additive is already authorised for use for these animal species. The applicant has provided evidence that, in essence, the additives under assessment comply with the conditions of the authorisation. In addition, a modification in the manufacturing process (i.e. addition of 0.2% sepiolite) is proposed. The Panel on Additives and Products or Substances used in Animal Feed (FEEDAP Panel) confirms that the cobalt component from the additive (cobalt(II) carbonate) remains safe for the target species and the environment. However, due to the absence of adequate data on some of the coating agents used in the manufacture of the additive, the Panel cannot conclude on the safety of coated granulated cobalt(II) carbonate for the target species and the environment. Due to the lack of adequate cobalt deposition data and information on the safety of some of the coating agents listed by the applicant, the FEEDAP Panel cannot conclude on the safety for the consumer. With regards to the safety for the users, the additive should be considered as irritant to the skin and eyes and a dermal and respiratory sensitiser. Any exposure is considered a risk and should be minimised. The FEEDAP Panel concludes that the additive is an efficacious source of cobalt in feeds for ruminants with functional rumen, equidae, lagomorphs, rodents, herbivore reptiles and zoo mammals.