Safety and efficacy of a feed additive consisting of an extract from the dried leaves of Hedera helix L. (common ivy extract) and thymol for all animal species and categories except poultry, ornamental birds and all aquatic animal species (FEFANA asbl)

Abstract Following a request from the European Commission, EFSA was asked to deliver a scientific opinion on the safety and efficacy of a feed additive consisting of an extract from the dried leaves of Hedera helix L. (common ivy extract) and thymol, when used as a sensory additive in feed for all animal species and categories except poultry, ornamental birds and all aquatic animal species. The EFSA Panel on Additives and Products or Substances used in Animal Feed (FEEDAP) concluded that the additive under assessment is safe up to the maximum proposed use levels in complete feed of 450 mg/kg for piglets and veal calves; 300 mg/kg for pigs for fattening, sows, rabbits and guinea pigs; 280 mg/kg for horses; 250 mg/kg for ruminants; and 600 mg/kg for dogs and cats. These levels are extrapolated to physiologically related species. For any other species, the additive is safe at 250 mg/kg complete feed. The use of the additive in animal feed under the proposed conditions of use is safe for the consumer and the environment. Regarding user safety, the extract under assessment should be considered as irritant to skin and eyes and respiratory sensitiser. Exposure of users by any route is considered a risk. The data provided indicate that the additive under assessment (common ivy extract and thymol) has the potential to be efficacious as a sensory additive in feed. However, the Panel notes that, considering the well‐known flavouring properties of thymol, it is not possible to conclude on the flavouring properties of the common ivy extract alone.