EU Seeks Approval for L-Valine as a Universal Animal Feed Additive

An authorisation is being sought for L-valine, a feed additive produced through fermentation. The additive is intended for use in premixtures, feedingstuffs, or drinking water for all animal species. It falls under the functional group of nutritional additives, specifically amino acids and their derivatives. The additive contains L-valine with a minimum purity of 98.5%. Production involves fermentation using the bacterium Corynebacterium glutamicum CGMCC 18932. The authorisation request covers its use across all animal species under Article 4.

For official control, the EURL recommends the EU method based on ion-exchange chromatography with visual or fluorescence detection (IEC-VIS/FLD). This method is proposed for quantifying valine in the additive, premixtures, feedingstuffs, and water. The EU method has demonstrated a relative standard deviation for repeatability (RSDr) of 1.7 to 3.8% and for reproducibility (RSDR) of 8.8 to 16.1% for total valine in feedingstuffs.

Two ring-trial validated methods are also proposed for quantification: EN ISO 13903 and the EU method. For identification, the EURL suggests using the L-valine monograph from the Food Chemical Codex (FCC). Additionally, the VDLUFA official method (4.11.6) or an equivalent based on IEC-VIS/FLD is recommended for quantifying valine in water. The proposed methods ensure accurate identification and quantification of L-valine in various matrices. The additive’s high purity and broad applicability aim to support its use as a nutritional supplement in animal feed. Official controls would rely on validated analytical techniques to maintain consistency and reliability.