Assessment of the application for renewal of authorisation of Yea-Sacc® (Saccharomyces cerevisiae) for horses.

The research article assesses Yea-Sacc, a zootechnical additive for horse feed based on a strain of Saccharomyces cerevisiae, in the context of renewal of its authorization. It also proposes to lower its minimum dose when used in horse feed. Despite inconsistent results in the first study, it was concluded that Yea-Sacc improves digestion of organic matter in horses in the second study. However, the research panel couldn’t confirm its efficacy at the proposed level.

Background and Purpose of the Research

• The research focuses on Yea-Sacc, a zootechnical additive made from a live preparation of Saccharomyces cerevisiae. It is mainly used as a digestibility enhancer in animal feed, in this case, specifically horses.
• The context of this research revolves around the renewal of Yea-Sacc’s authorization. The researchers are also considering a proposal to lower the minimum dose of Yea-Sacc in horse feed.
• The two forms of Yea-Sacc studied are a powder and a prills (small, round pellets). Both types of the additive are currently available in the market and have complied with existing authorization conditions.

Safety Assessment and Findings

• The study assessed the safety of Yea-Sacc, with the European Food Safety Authority presuming it to be safe for the target species (horses), consumers, and the environment since the identity of the production strain was confirmed.
• However, there are certain aspects to consider. Whilst both forms of Yea-Sacc do not irritate the skin, the powdered form causes moderate irritation to the eyes. Additionally, both formulations proved to be potential skin sensitizers.
• Due to their high protein content, the study suggests that both types of Yea-Sacc should be classified as potential respiratory sensitizers as well.

Efficacy Studies and Conclusions

• The applicant conducted two efficacy studies for Yea-Sacc. In the first study, results were inconsistent for the two lower doses, which were considered microbiologically the same.
• On the other hand, the second study proved that Yea-Sacc led to improved digestion of organic matter. This improvement might be attributed to increases in the digestibility of fiber.
• In spite of these results, the two studies’ data could not conclusively establish the effectiveness of Yea-Sacc when used as a feed additive for horses at the proposed lower dose level.