The choice of trace minerals doses and sources interacts with oxidation kinetics in premixtures. Some studies have shown that non-water soluble sources of zinc and copper like HiZox and CoRouge, two products from Animine, can prevent vitamin degradation.
Ethoxyquin is a synthetic antioxidant used as a feed additive in fish meal, fats, vitamins and premixes. The European Food Safety Agency (EFSA) has published an Opinion, in which experts could not conclude on the safety of the additive for any target animals, for consumers and for the environment. Some concerns were raised on the possible genotoxicity of one metabolite, and on the possible mutagenicity of one impurity.
Considering this review, it is very likely that the EU Commission will soon suspend the authorization of ethoxyquin in animal feeds, pending supplementary data.
Premix and feed manufacturers are encouraged to review all measures which will reduce vitamin degradation.
