Assessment of the feed additive consisting of astaxanthin (2a161j) for fish, crustaceans and ornamental fish for the renewal of its authorisation (BASF SE, DSM Nutritional Products Ltd., JYB Europe BV, NHU EUROPE GmbH)

Following a request from the European Commission, EFSA was asked to deliver a scientific opinion on the assessment of the application for the renewal of the authorisation of astaxanthin as a sensory additive for fish, crustaceans and ornamental fish. The applicants provided evidence that the additive currently on the market complies with the existing conditions of authorisation. There is no new evidence that would lead the EFSA Panel on Additives and Products or Substances used in Animal Feed to reconsider its previous conclusions regarding the safety of the additive. Therefore, astaxanthin remains safe for the target species, consumers and environment under the authorised conditions of use. Regarding safety for the user, astaxanthin is not irritant to skin or eyes and is not a dermal sensitiser. The dispersible powder formulation containing 10% astaxanthin is not irritant to skin and eye but should be considered a dermal and respiratory sensitiser, and exposure of users by respiratory and dermal routes is considered a risk. No conclusions can be drawn on the other preparations containing astaxanthin. There is no need for assessing the efficacy of the additive in the context of the renewal of the authorisation.