Safety of potassium polyaspartate (A-5D K/SD) for use as a stabiliser in wine.

Potassium polyaspartate (A-5D K/SD) is proposed for use as a stabiliser in wine, with a maximum use level of 300 mg/L and typical levels in the range of 100-200 mg/L. The data provided in support of the current application were in accordance with the Tier 1 requirement of the Guidance for submission for food additive evaluations issued by the ANS Panel in 2012. In the in vitro tests provided by the applicant, potassium polyaspartate (A-5D K/SD) showed minimal proteolytic digestion and no absorption of the intact compound. Potassium polyaspartate (A-5D K/SD) tested negative in a bacterial reverse mutation assay performed in accordance with OECD TG 471 and in an in vitro mammalian cell micronucleus test performed in accordance with OECD TG 487. From a 90-day oral toxicity study in rats performed in accordance with OECD TG 408, a no observed adverse effect level (NOAEL) was set at 1,000 mg/kg bw per day, the highest dose tested. The Panel considered these data as fulfilling the requirements for the evaluation of the new food additive and did not request additional testing for chronic toxicity and carcinogenicity, nor for reprotoxicity and developmental toxicity. Exposure estimates to potassium polyaspartate (A-5D K/SD) from its proposed use were calculated for both typical and maximum use levels. In the worst case scenario of high-level intakes of potassium polyaspartate (A-5D K/SD) when used at the maximum proposed use level of 300 mg/L, the maximum estimated intake would be 1.8 mg/kg bw per day in the elderly and 1.4 mg/kg bw per day in adults, resulting in a margin of safety of approximately 550. The Panel concluded that there was no safety concern from the proposed use and use levels of potassium polyaspartate (A-5D K/SD). [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]