EU To Reduce Canthaxanthin Levels in Animal Feed

EU To Reduce Canthaxanthin Levels in Animal Feed

BRUSSELS--Following scientific assessmentsestablishing a link between high canthaxanthin intake and eyesight problems inhumans (due to an accumulation of pigment in the retina), the EuropeanCommission adopted a directive Jan. 27 to reduce the authorized level ofcanthaxanthin in animal feed. Traditionally, the carotenoid had been added tofeed to make farmed salmon the same color as salmon in nature that have consumeda diet of shrimp. Canthaxanthin has also been used to brighten the skin ofchicken and the yolks of their eggs due to consumer preference.

"The use of this additive is purely cosmetic and reducedlevels of the additive will not adversely affect the taste or quality of ourfood," Commissioner David Byrne said.