Introduction
BASF has introduced Natupulse® TS, an enzyme product designed for animal feed. This non-starch polysaccharide (NSP) enzyme functions as an endo-1,4-ß-D-mannanase, breaking down ß-mannans into smaller components such as manno-oligosaccharides (MOS). The inclusion of ß-mannanase in feed reduces digesta viscosity, enhances feed digestibility, and promotes more sustainable production practices.
Manufacturer´s main claims:
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Functionality: It targets and hydrolyzes ß-mannans, which are prevalent in soybean meal, a primary protein source in broiler diets. This action improves nutrient digestion and can have a prebiotic effect due to the MOS produced.
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Efficacy: Studies confirm that Natupulse® TS increases feed digestibility. It has shown additional positive effects when used in combination with other enzymes like Natuphos® E and Natugrain® TS.
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Production and Availability: Manufactured by BASF in Germany, Natupulse® TS is available in both powder and liquid forms, offering stability during storage, in premixes, and under pelleting conditions.
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Sustainability and Cost-Effectiveness: The enzyme supports more sustainable animal protein production and makes feed more cost-effective by improving nutrient digestibility.
Technical specifications of Natupulse® TM (solid and liquid)
EU category
Zootechnical additives
Functional group of additives
Digestibility enhancers
Active substance
Endo-1,4-beta-mannanase (EC 3.2.1.78)
Enzymatic activity in the product
8000 TMU/g
EU approval, minimum content
All poultry species for fattening
Ornamental birds
800 TMU/kg feed
End of period of EU authorisation
14 July 2034
EU code
4a47
Production organism
Thermothelomyces thermophilus (DSM 33149)
Product storage stability
The stability and shelf life of the additive Natupulse® TS were evaluated using different formulations:
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Formulations Tested: The liquid formulation and a spray-dried intermediary product were tested. The spray-dried product is similar to the mannanase concentrate with magnesium sulfate, which undergoes spray-drying.
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Stability in Premixture: The stability of the additive in premixtures was studied using only the spray-dried intermediary product.
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Stability and Distribution in Feedingstuffs: Both the solid and liquid formulations were used to study the stability of the additive in feedingstuffs and its ability to distribute homogeneously in feed.
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Additional Materials: Materials like wheat bran or middlings were added to the spray-dried product to create the solid formulation. These materials are not expected to affect the stability properties of the mannanase, so the data from these studies can be used to assess the stability of Natupulse® TS.
Heat stability
The manufacturer claims the solid form of the product is stable up to 85°C.
Homogeneity
No information provided
Physical properties
No information provided
Recommended dosage
800 TMU/kg feed ~ 100 g product/t feed
Handling
The European Commission states: "For users of the additive and premixtures, feed business operators shall establish operational procedures and organisational measures to address the potential risks resulting from their use. Where those risks cannot be eliminated by such procedures and measures, the additive and premixtures shall be used with personal breathing, skin and eye protective equipment."
Manufacturer
List of references
EFSA (2023). Safety and efficacy of a feed additive consisting of endo-1,4-b-D-mannanase produced by Thermothelomyces thermophilus DSM 33149 (Natupulse® TS/TS L) for chickens and turkeys for fattening, minor poultry species for fattening and ornamental birds (BASF SE). EFSA Journal, 2023;21(2):7873
EU (2024). COMMISSION IMPLEMENTING REGULATION (EU) 2024/1743 of 21 June 2024 concerning the authorisation of a preparation of endo-1,4-beta-mannanase produced with Thermothelomyces thermophilus DSM 33149 as a feed additive for all poultry species for fattening and ornamental birds (holder of authorisation: BASF SE). Official Journal of the European Union, http://data.europa.eu/eli/reg_impl/2024/1743/oj