Safety and efficacy of the feed additives consisting of l-glutamic acid and monosodium l-glutamate monohydrate produced by Corynebacterium glutamicum NITE BP-01681 for all animal species (METEX NOOVISTAGO)
At the request of the European Commission, the Panel on Additives and Products or Substances used in Animal Feed (FEEDAP) was tasked with evaluating the safety and efficacy of L-glutamic acid and monosodium L-glutamate monohydrate, both produced by fermentation using the genetically modified strain *Corynebacterium glutamicum* NITE BP-01681. These additives are intended for use in animal feed and drinking water across all species and categories, either as nutritional additives (amino acids) or as sensory additives (flavouring agents). No viable cells of the production strain, nor its DNA, were detected in the final L(+)-Monosodium glutamate monohydrate products, ruling out safety concerns related to the strain itself. Both L-glutamic acid and monosodium L-glutamate monohydrate, when produced with *C. glutamicum* NITE BP-01681, are deemed safe for the target species, consumers, and the environment. However, the Panel expressed concerns regarding their use in drinking water, specifically for hygienic reasons. The additives were found to be non-irritant to skin and eyes and not dermal sensitisers, but inhalation exposure could pose a risk. Ultimately, the Panel concluded that the additives are effective both as nutritional supplements and as flavouring compounds.