Biotech Updates

EFSA Releases Scientific Opinion on the Food Enzyme Endo-1,4-β-xylanase from GM Bacillus subtilis strain AR-153

December 18, 2024

The European Food Safety Authority (EFSA) Panel on Food Enzymes evaluated the safety of the food enzyme endo-1,4-β-xylanase from the genetically modified (GM) Bacillus subtilis strain AR-153. The application for the authorization procedure for food additives, food enzymes, and food flavorings was submitted by AB Enzymes GmbH.

The EFSA Scientific Opinion indicates that the production strain meets the requirements for the qualified presumption of safety (QPS) approach. The Panel also said that the genetic modifications do not give safety concerns and the food enzyme is free from viable cells of the production organisms and its DNA. As such, the Panel considered toxicity tests unnecessary.

The homology search did not identify a match between the amino acid sequence of the food enzyme and known allergens. Although risks cannot be excluded, the Panel said the risk of allergic reactions to dietary exposure remains low. The Panel concludes that this food enzyme does not give safety concerns under the intended conditions of use.

For more information, read the article from EFSA.


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