Safety evaluation of the food enzyme β-fructofuranosidase from the non-genetically modified strain NCYC R693.

The food enzyme β-fructofuranosidase (β-d-fructofuranoside fructohydrolase; EC 3.2.1.26) is produced with the non-genetically modified strain NCYC R693 by Kerry Ingredients & Flavours Ltd. The production strain meets the requirements for the qualified presumption of safety (QPS) approach. The food enzyme is intended to be used in four food manufacturing processes. The dietary exposure to the food enzyme-total organic solids (TOS) was estimated to be up to 2.485 mg TOS/kg body weight per day in European populations. As the production strain qualifies for the QPS approach of safety assessment and no issue of concern arising from the production process of the food enzyme were identified, the Panel considered that no toxicological studies other than the assessment of allergenicity were necessary. A search for the similarity of the amino acid sequence of the food enzyme to known allergens was made and one match with a tomato allergen was found. The Panel considered that the risk of allergic reactions upon dietary exposure to this food enzyme, particularly in individuals sensitised to tomato, cannot be excluded. However, the likelihood of allergic reactions is expected not to exceed the likelihood of allergic reactions to tomato. Based on the data provided, the Panel concluded that this food enzyme does not give rise to safety concerns under the intended conditions of use.