(1)

The presence of nickel (Ni) in feed can arise from both natural and anthropogenic sources. Additionally, certain feed materials contain metallic nickel, since it is used as a catalyst in their production.

(2)

The European Food Safety Authority (‘the Authority’) Panel on Contaminants in the Food Chain (CONTAM Panel) has provided a scientific opinion on the risks to animal and public health and the environment to the presence of Ni in feed (1).

(3)

The CONTAM Panel concluded that any adverse impact of Ni via feed to cattle, pigs, rabbits, ducks, fish, dogs, chickens, horses, sheep, goats and cats is unlikely. Concerning the assessment of human health risks from the presence of Ni in food of animal origin, the CONTAM Panel concluded that in the average population the current levels of chronic exposure to Ni, considering only foods of animal origin, might be of potential concern in the young population. Regarding acute dietary exposure, the CONTAM Panel concluded that nickel-sensitized individuals are also at risk of developing eczematous flare-up skin reactions through the consumption of food of animal origin. The contribution of food of animal origin to human dietary exposure to Ni should therefore not be underestimated, particularly in age classes with high dietary exposure to Ni. However from the available data it was not possible to determine carry-over rates from feed to food of animal origin.

(4)

It is observed that the occurrence data on Ni in feed used in the EFSA scientific opinion were mainly originating from one Member State and are therefore not necessarily representative for the presence of Ni in feed in the EU.

(5)

It is therefore appropriate to monitor the presence of Ni in feed across the EU before considering the setting of maximum levels of Ni in feed or any other risk management measures needed to ensure a high level of animal and human health protection,