Introduction
The EU initially approved the specific strain of the yeast Saccharomyces cerevisiae NCYC R404 under the trade name Mycocell. In 2021, Volac acquired the manufacturer of Mycocell Micron Biosystems. The product is now sold under the name UltraCell. It is approved in the EU for use in dairy cows.
Manufacturer´s main claims
Increases rumen total and cellulolytic bacteria
Increases fibre digestion
Stabilises rumen pH
Reduces rumen methane production
Resistant to many antibiotics and ionophores
Fully compatible with trace minerals
Technical specifications of MycoCell/UltraCell
EU category
Zootechnical additive
Functional group of additives
Gut flora stabiliser
Active substance
Saccharomyces cerevisiae (NCYC R404)
Activity in the product
1 x 1010 CFU/g
EU approval
There is no maximum inclusion for the animal categories below
Dairy cows: 4.4 x 108 CFU/kg feed with no maximum
End of period of authorisation
Dairy cows: 14 April 2025
EU code
4b1871
Recommended dosage
1 x 1010 CFU/head/day
Product storage stability
Viability data showed that the product could be stored in its original packaging for 12 months at 20°C. However, when stored at 40°C for the same time, the results showed a 10-fold reduction in viability.
Storage stability in feed premix
The product was stable for up to six months when added to a mineral premix and stored at 4°C, 15°C, 20°C or 30°C
Heat stability
The product is intended for use in TMR rations.
Carrier
98 % yeast, 1 % dextrose, 1 % sorbitan monostearate
Package size
Handling
It is recommended to use breathing and skin protection during handling
Producer
Volac
List of references
EFSA (2014). Scientific Opinion on the Safety and efficacy of MycoCell (Saccharomyces cerevisiae) as a feed additive for dairy cows. EFSA Journal 2014;12(9):3830
EU (2015). Commission Implementing Regulation (EU) No 2015/502 of 24 March 2015 concerning the authorisation of the preparation of Saccharomyces cerevisiae NCYC R404 as a feed additive for dairy cows (holder of authorisation Micron Biosystems Ltd.). Official Journal of the European Union. L 79/57-59