EU Reviews New L-Lysine Feed Additives for Animal Nutrition and Safety

A new authorisation request has been submitted for several forms of L-lysine used in animal feed. The application covers L-lysine monohydrochloride, concentrated liquid L-lysine, and L-lysine produced via fermentation with specific bacterial strains. These additives are intended for all animal species and fall under nutritional and sensory categories. The feed additives in question include L-lysine monohydrochloride, L-lysine in liquid form, and L-lysine derived from Corynebacterium glutamicum strains KCCM 80368 and KCCM 80479. Each variant meets strict purity standards: at least 78% L-lysine content (dry matter) for the monohydrochloride and standard forms, and 50% for the liquid base. These additives may be incorporated into feed through premixtures, complementary feed, or directly into compound feed and drinking water.

The European Union Reference Laboratory (EURL) has recommended specific testing methods for quality control. For identifying L-lysine monohydrochloride, the *Food Chemical Codex (FCC)* monograph is advised. To measure lysine levels in premixtures and compound feed, the EURL suggests the ring-trial validated EU method based on ion-exchange chromatography with visible spectroscopy (IEC-VIS). For feed additives and premixtures containing over 10% lysine, the EN ISO 17180 method is preferred. The same IEC-VIS approach is also recommended for determining lysine content in drinking water. When used as a flavouring compound, the maximum permitted level of L-lysine is set at 25 mg per kg of compound feed. The applicant has proposed a modified version of the existing EU method for lysine determination in these additives.

The authorisation, if granted, would allow the use of these L-lysine additives across all animal species. The EURL’s recommended testing methods aim to ensure consistency and safety in feed formulations. The proposed limits and procedures will now undergo further review before a final decision is made.