Safety and efficacy of a feed additive consisting of Pediococcus pentosaceus NCIMB 12674 for all animal species (Danstar Ferment AG)

Following a request from the European Commission, EFSA was asked to deliver a scientific opinion on Pediococcus pentosaceus NCIMB 12674 when used as a technological additive to improve ensiling of all fresh plant material for all animal species at a proposed minimum concentration of 1 × 10⁹ colony forming units (CFU)/kg fresh plant material. The bacterial species P. pentosaceus is considered by EFSA to be suitable for the qualified presumption of safety approach to safety assessment. The identity of the strain was established, and no acquired antimicrobial resistance genes were detected. Therefore, the FEEDAP Panel concluded that the use of the strain as a silage additive is considered safe for all the animal species, for consumers of products from animals fed with the treated silage and for the environment. Regarding user safety, inhalation and dermal exposure is considered a risk. No conclusions can be drawn on the eye irritancy potential of the additive. The FEEDAP Panel concluded that P. pentosaceus NCIMB 12674 at a minimum level of 1 × 10⁹ CFU/kg fresh plant material has the potential to improve the production and fermentation quality of silage made from moderately difficult to ensile fresh plant material, with DM content ranging from 21% to 38.5%.