In February 2014, the EFSA published an article on the use of formaldehyde in animal feed. When formaldehyde is used in animal feed, there is no increased intake of formaldehyde by the consumer. Therefore, the EFSA does not expect an increase in risk when formaldehyde is used.

Formaldehyde is an important metabolic intermediate product which is present in the body. It is important for the immune system in the protection against endogenous molecules. Because of this, formaldehyde can be used to control e.g. Salmonella in feed.

Formaldehyde is a water soluble liquid, which is oxidised to formic acid in the body. It is present in several animal products. The concentration in milk is 0,1-0,3 mg/kg and some fish species contain 200 mg/kg.

Interested in the complete article? Please contact us at: info@efs-holland.nl.

Animal feed Consumer EFS EFSA Endogenous molecules Formaldehyde Formic acid Metabolic intermediate product Salmonella Study