Sodium selenite for all animal species

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EFSA Panel on EFSA Panel on Additives and Products or Substances used in Animal Feed (FEEDAP)

Selenium is a trace element that is essential for vertebrates and involved in a series of vital metabolic functions. The additive, a coated granulated preparation of sodium selenite, consists of carrier granules to which the active compound, sodium selenite, is fixed using filming agents; it is manufactured with different selenium contents. Sodium selenite is considered to be a safe source of selenium for all animal species/categories, also when applied in coated granulated preparations. Based on extensive published literature data, the use of sodium selenite as a source of selenium in animal nutrition is considered to be safe for the consumer, provided that the total maximum authorised content of selenium in complete feed is respected. No concerns would arise from inhalation of selenium during the handling of the coated granulated preparation of sodium selenite owing to the very low estimated exposure. The coated granulated preparation of sodium selenite is considered to be an irritant to the skin, eyes and the respiratory system, and a skin sensitizer. Systemic exposure to selenium could result from dermal contact, particularly when cutaneous absorption of sodium selenite might be facilitated by skin damage; any dermal contact with the additive should be avoided. The use of sodium selenite in animal nutrition up to the maximum authorised content in feed would not raise concerns regarding the soil compartment, the ground or surface water. Concerning the marine sediments, given standard aquaculture practices and the low potential maximum concentration of selenium from fish feeds, any impact on the environment is unlikely. The coated granulated preparation of sodium selenite is an efficacious source of the essential trace element selenium for all animal species.