The European Union (EU) livestock sector is preparing for the zinc oxide (ZnO) restrictions that will come into force in June 2022 and is considering alternatives to replace it. Well, what is the scope and justification for ZnO restrictions?
ZnO is a supplement used to control diarrhea especially in piglets after weaning and improve intestinal performance. However, in addition to these seemingly positive effects, it can also be the source of important problems that may cause restrictions in terms of human, animal and environmental health. Behind the restrictions that will start in June 2022 in line with the decision taken 5 years ago by the EU, there are problems related to heavy metal accumulation due to high usage and the potential for antimicrobial resistance. It was for these reasons that the European Medicines Agency (EMA) concluded that the benefits from its use did not outweigh the environmental risks.
Some people may have the perception that zinc oxide is completely banned, but in reality there is a restriction on the amount of its use. On the recommendation of the European Food Safety Authority (EFSA), the European Commission considers zinc supplementation of 150 ppm as the legal limit for piglets. In summary, ZnO can still be used at low doses as a feed additive. The main restriction is in the category of veterinary medicinal products. Pharmacological use, that is, the use of therapeutic drugs containing high ZnO (2000 ppm and above) is prohibited.
It should also be remembered that regulations regarding ZnO are not only in the EU. There are also various regulations for the use of ZnO in countries such as the USA, Canada and China.
As a result, the restrictions brought on the use of this supplement, which is considered highly important for animal performance and efficiency of enterprises; push the pig breeders to look for new ways out because this new situation has the potential to impose serious financial burdens on pig breeders. Finding right feeding strategies and making good use of alternative supplements other than antibiotics seems to be the only way for breeders to minimize these burdens.
In last year’s May 2021 issue of Feed & Additive Magazine, we covered this topic and presented some alternative solutions. We are getting ready to discuss this subject specially once again exactly one year later, in May 2022 issue. You can write to us in order to discuss problems, solutions and alternatives that the new situation will cause, so we can give place to your opinions in our magazine.
See you in the next issue…
