Safety evaluation of the food enzyme β-fructofuranosidase from the non-genetically modified Saccharomyces cerevisiae strain INV.

Abstract

The food enzyme β-fructofuranosidase (β-d-fructofuranoside fructohydrolase; EC 3.2.1.26) is produced with the non-genetically modified Saccharomyces cerevisiae strain INV by DSM Food Specialties B.V. It is intended to be used in four food manufacturing processes: manufacture of specialty carbohydrates (invert sugar syrups), baking processes, production of sucrose-based fermented beverages and confectionary processes. The dietary exposure to the food enzyme-total organic solids (TOS) was estimated to be up to 2.51mg TOS/kg body weight (bw) per day in European populations. Toxicological studies were not considered necessary, given the qualified presumption of safety status of the production strain and the nature of the manufacturing process. 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, under the intended conditions of use, 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 to the β-fructofuranosidase from S. cerevisiae strain INV is expected not to exceed the likelihood of allergic reactions to tomato. As the prevalence of allergic reactions to tomato is low, also the likelihood of such reaction to occur to the food enzyme 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.