Scientific Opinion on the efficacy of Natugrain® TS/TS L (endo-1,4-beta-xylanase and endo-1,4-beta-glucanase) as a feed additive for laying hens

Following a request from the European Commission, the Panel on Additives and Products or Substances used in Animal Feed (FEEDAP) was asked to deliver a scientific opinion on the efficacy of Natugrain^® TS/TS L in laying hens. This feed additive contains endo-1,4-beta-xylanase and endo-1,4-beta-glucanase, produced by two genetically modified strains of Aspergillus niger. The product is available in solid (Natugrain^® TS) and liquid (Natugrain^® TS L) forms. This additive is authorised for use in weaned piglets and pigs for fattening, poultry species and ornamental birds. The applicant is now seeking a modification of the terms of the authorisation to reduce the recommended dose in laying hens from 560 thermostable xylanase units (TXU) and 250 thermostable glucanase units (TGU) per kg feed to 280 TXU and 125 TGU per kg feed. The FEEDAP Panel assumes that the two formulations of the additive are equivalent in terms of efficacy. A total of three trials were provided. Based on the results obtained, the Panel concludes that Natugrain^® TS has the potential to be efficacious in laying hens at the dose of 280 TXU and 125 TGU per kg feed.