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20.11.2024 - Foods

Lupins as Animal Feed: BfR and FLI Warn of Potential Health Effects

The Federal Institute for Risk Assessment (BfR) and the Friedrich Loeffler Institute (FLI) issued a joint statement on lupins as feed on 11/07/24. 

Lupins are protein-rich legumes that can contain bitter substances with undesirable health effects on humans and animals, including quinolizidine alkaloids (QA). Symptoms of poisoning from bitter substances can include motor disturbances, gastrointestinal complaints, and even paralysis and cardiac arrhythmias.

In a feeding study at the BfR, it was shown that these alkaloids from animal feed can pass into the milk of dairy cows. The QA content in lupins fluctuates depending on the variety, cultivation conditions, and fertilization management. 

In light of the current findings, the Federal Institute for Risk Assessment (BfR) recommends increased testing of the QA content in seeds and composite feed. 

In our Tentamus laboratories, we regularly conduct examinations of feed. We provide you with quick and reliable results.

For any questions, our customer advisors are happy to assist you.