Safety evaluation of the food enzyme dextransucrase from the genetically modified Bacillus subtilis strain DP-Eyp97

The food enzyme dextransucrase (sucrose:1,6-α-d-glucan 6-α-d-glucosyltransferase; EC 2.4.1.5) is produced with the genetically modified Bacillus subtilis strain DP-Eyp97 by Genencor International B.V. The production strain met the requirements for the qualified presumption of safety. The food enzyme was considered free from viable cells of the production organism and its DNA. The food enzyme is intended to be used in the processing of sugars for the production of oligo- and polysaccharides in situ. Dietary exposure was estimated to be up to 27.598 mg total organic solids/kg body weight per day in European populations. Given the QPS status of the production strain and the absence of concerns resulting from the food enzyme manufacturing process, toxicity tests were considered unnecessary by the Panel. A search for the homology of the amino acid sequence of the dextransucrase to known allergens was made, and no match was found. The Panel considered that a risk of allergic reactions upon dietary exposure to the food enzyme cannot be excluded, but that the likelihood is low. 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.