17/09/2015

Following a request from the European Commission, the EFSA Panel on Food Contact Materials, Enzymes, Flavourings and Processing Aids (CEF Panel) was asked to deliver a scientific opinion on the food enzyme thrombin (EC 3.4.21.5) obtained from blood plasma of cattle and pigs.It is obtained from cattle and pig's blood that is fit for human consumption and is processed hygienically, without artificial changes. As the food enzyme is derived from edible parts of animals, no toxicological tests are required.

The dietary exposure was assessed in accordance with the EFSA Comprehensive European Food Consumption Database. Based on the origin of the food enzyme from edible parts of animals, the manufacturing process, and the compositional and biochemical data provided, the Panel concluded that this food enzyme does not give rise to safety concerns under the intended conditions of use.