EFSA Confirmed Vermiculite Efficacy in Pig Feed
The EFSA FEEDAP Panel determined that vermiculite acts as an effective anticaking agent for pigs at 5000 mg/kg.
Updated on Oct. 12, 2026 in Nutrition
The European Food Safety Authority (EFSA) FEEDAP Panel has concluded that vermiculite is an effective anticaking agent for suckling piglets and fattening pigs. This determination follows an assessment of new data to align usage with safe concentration levels.
Why it matters
The European Commission requested this scientific opinion to establish safe and effective additive levels for porcine nutrition. Finding an efficacious dose at 5000 mg/kg ensures the additive can be used safely without exceeding the established safety thresholds for these animals.
The FEEDAP Panel validated a concentration of 5000 mg/kg as efficacious for piglets and fattening pigs, which is significantly lower than the 10,000 mg/kg level previously authorized for use in chickens and hens.
The players
EFSA FEEDAP Panel
This panel provides scientific advice on the safety and efficacy of additives and products used in animal feed within the European Union.
European Commission
This executive branch of the European Union manages the legislation and policy requests governing food and feed safety standards.
The details
The panel reviewed new data regarding various pig feed types to confirm the additive performs its role effectively at the lower, safer concentration. This finding allows for the use of vermiculite in a manner that remains consistent with safety protocols for piglets and fattening pigs.
Timeline
October 12, 2026: The article regarding the scientific opinion was published.
The Big Picture
This scientific opinion follows the established regulatory requirements for updating additive usage within the EU feed additive authorization framework.
This adjustment ensures that porcine nutrition providers can incorporate anticaking agents while strictly adhering to safety limits for piglets and fattening pigs. Livestock managers should update their feed formulations to align with this approved 5000 mg/kg dosage requirement.
The takeaway
Producers should transition to the 5000 mg/kg limit to ensure compliance with the latest safety findings for pig feed additives. Staying informed about EFSA panel recommendations helps optimize feed quality while maintaining animal health and regulatory standards.
Further reading
For more information on animal feed standards, explore our latest reports in the Nutrition section.
Source note: This article includes information reported by Foodmate.
