Safety and efficacy of l‐tryptophan produced by fermentation with Escherichia coli KCCM 80152 for all animal species

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 <b>l-</b>tryptophan produced by fermentation using <i>Escherichia coli</i> KCCM 80152 when used as nutritional additive in feed and water for drinking for all animal species. The production strain and its recombinant DNA were not detected in the additive. <b>l-</b>Tryptophan, manufactured by fermentation with <i>E. coli</i> KCCM 80152, does not give rise to any safety concern with regard to the genetic modification of the production strain. The use of <b>l-</b>tryptophan produced using <i>E. coli</i> KCCM 80152 in supplementing feed to compensate for tryptophan deficiency in feedingstuffs is safe for non-ruminant target species. Using unprotected forms of tryptophan in ruminants can be a risk. The use of <b>l-</b>tryptophan produced by fermentation using <i>E. coli</i> KCCM 80152 in animal feed presents no concerns to consumers of animal products. Due to the content of endotoxins, the additive poses a risk for persons handling the additive when exposed by inhalation. The additive is not considered irritant for skin or eyes and is not considered a skin sensitiser. The additive under assessment is safe for the environment. The additive under assessment is regarded as an effective source of the amino acid <b>l-</b>tryptophan for all non-ruminant species. If <b>l-</b>tryptophan is intended for use in ruminants, it should be protected from ruminal degradation.