Dyes in aquaculture and reference points for action.

Area of Science:

• Food safety and toxicology
• Animal product safety
• Chemical risk assessment

Background:

• Dyes may be illegally used in aquaculture for antimicrobial properties.
• These substances are not registered for use in food-producing animals within the EU.
• The European Commission requested EFSA to assess dye applicability to RPA guidance.

Purpose of the Study:

• To determine if specific dyes fall under the EFSA guidance for non-allowed pharmacologically active substances.
• To assign relevant dyes to appropriate groups within the guidance framework.
• To establish toxicological screening values for covered substances.

Main Methods:

• Evaluation of a series of dyes against the 'Guidance on methodological principles and scientific methods for establishing Reference Points for Action (RPAs)'.
• Classification of dyes based on their properties and potential application.
• Determination of a toxicological screening value for applicable substances.

Main Results:

• Twenty-one dyes, including acriflavine, brilliant green, crystal violet, and methylene blue, were determined to be covered by the guidance document.
• These dyes were assigned to Group I.
• A toxicological screening value of 0.0025 μg/kg body weight per day was established.
• Azure blue and potassium permanganate were excluded due to their inorganic nature.

Conclusions:

• The evaluated dyes are subject to the EFSA guidance for non-allowed pharmacologically active substances in food of animal origin.
• A specific toxicological screening value is applicable to these dyes.
• The assessment provides a framework for managing risks associated with illegal dye use in food-producing animals.