Scientific Opinion on the safety and efficacy of DL-selenomethionine as a feed additive for all animal species

DL-Selenomethionine (DL-SeMet) consists of 40 % selenium, an essential trace element. DL-SeMet. It was tolerated by chickens for fattening at up to 1.5 mg selenium supplemented/kg feed; DL-SeMet is therefore safe for chickens for fattening provided total dietary selenium does not exceed 0.5 mg/kg complete feed; this conclusion is extended to all animal species. Based on available toxicity studies and previous assessments of closely related compounds, it is concluded that selenium from DL-SeMet does not elicit any adverse effects not expected in a selenium compound. The use of DL-SeMet in animal nutrition is expected to result in a similar increase in selenium deposition in animal tissues/products as that resulting from other sources of SeMet. To ensure consumer safety from consumption of food originating from animals fed DL-SeMet, dietary selenium supplementation from the additive should not exceed a maximum of 0.2 mg Se/kg complete feed. Although a DL-SeMet-containing additive did not release any measurable dust, the additive is considered as a hazard by inhalation, which requires protection measures for users since the additive is not the subject of authorisation, and selenium is highly toxic. The additive is not an irritant to skin and eyes and is not a dermal sensitiser. The use of DL-SeMet in feed does not pose an additional risk to the environment, compared with other sources of selenium for which it will substitute, as long as the maximum authorised content in complete feed is not exceeded. Sufficient evidence is provided that DL-SeMet is an effective source of selenium in chickens for fattening. Since there are no fundamental differences between target animals in the metabolism of SeMet and its use for the specific biological functions of selenium, the FEEDAP Panel extends its conclusion on the efficacy of DL-SeMet to all animal species and categories.