EU Reviews Expanded Use of L-Threonine in Animal Feed Across All Species
A new authorisation request has been submitted for L-threonine, an amino acid feed additive produced through fermentation. The application covers its use across all animal species, with a minimum purity requirement of 98%. Officials are now reviewing the proposed methods for identifying and measuring the substance in various feed types and water.
The applicant has proposed several validated methods for testing L-threonine. For the feed additive itself and premixtures with over 10% threonine, the ring-trial validated EN ISO 17180 method (based on IEC-VIS/FLD) has been put forward. The European Union Reference Laboratory (EURL) supports this approach for official control.
For premixtures, compound feed, and water, the EURL recommends a separate EU method, also ring-trial validated and based on IEC-VIS. Additionally, the AOAC 999.13 and VDLUFA 4.11.6 methods (using IEC-VIS/FLD) have been suggested for threonine detection in water. The EURL has further endorsed the Food Chemical Codex 'L-threonine monograph' for identifying the additive. The product is designed for flexible use—it can be mixed into premixtures, added to complementary feed, or incorporated directly into compound feed or drinking water. If approved, this authorisation would expand on the existing EU regulation (2024/238), which currently permits L-threonine for seven species: fattening chickens, laying hens, fattening turkeys, fattening pigs, piglets, dairy cows, and milk-producing minor ruminants.
The proposed authorisation would allow L-threonine, produced via Escherichia coli CCTCC M 202447, to be used across all livestock categories. Officials will assess the recommended testing methods before finalising the approval. The decision will determine whether the additive meets the required 98% purity standard for safe and effective use in animal nutrition.
