Star anise oil authorized in EU feed: what manufacturers and livestock farmers must do

Key data

Feed manufacturers and livestock operators throughout the EU have a new ingredient available with complete regulatory backing: star anise essential oil from Illicium verum Hook.f. is authorized as a sensory additive for feed intended for all animal species, according to Implementing Regulation (EU) 2026/2090, published on 21 September 2026.

The authorization is not a minor formality. It means that any company wishing to incorporate this ingredient into its formulations must do so respecting the technical conditions and dosage levels set out in the regulation. And those already using it—in a context of less regulation—must now verify whether their current use complies with the new official parameters.

What does this regulation establish?

The regulation formalizes the authorization of star anise essential oil (Illicium verum Hook.f.) as an additive in the sensory category for feed. This category groups additives that influence the organoleptic characteristics of animal feed: aroma, flavor and palatability.

The key points established by the regulation are:

• Authorized additive: Star anise essential oil, obtained from Illicium verum Hook.f.
• Classification: Sensory additive for feed.
• Scope of application: All animal species, without restriction by species.
• Conditions of use: Doses and technical parameters set out in the annex to the regulation.
• Safety evaluated: The European Food Safety Authority (EFSA) has concluded that the additive is safe for animals, human consumers and the environment.
• Compliance obligation: Operators already using this oil in their formulations must verify that their use complies with the new official parameters.

The favorable EFSA assessment is the prerequisite for any authorization of an additive in feed under the framework of Regulation (EC) No 1831/2003, which regulates additives in animal feed in the EU. This implementing regulation is therefore the formal act that closes the authorization process and incorporates star anise oil into the official register of permitted additives.

Economic and operational impact

The authorization has a dual reading for the sector:

Commercial opportunity: Feed manufacturers now have a new sensory additive with complete regulatory backing. Star anise essential oil can improve feed palatability, which has a direct impact on voluntary feed intake by animals and, consequently, on conversion ratios and productive performance.

Operational obligation: The authorization is not automatically compatible with any previous use. Companies already incorporating this oil into their formulations—possibly under less precise frameworks—must now:

• Verify that the doses used comply with the limits set out in the regulation.
• Update technical sheets and formulation documentation.
• Review and adapt product labeling in accordance with official technical requirements.

Non-compliance with the conditions of use of an authorized additive may result in problems during inspections, product recalls or loss of quality certifications. Feed additive regulations are subject to control by the competent authorities of each Member State.

Who does it affect?

• Compound feed manufacturers wishing to incorporate or already using star anise essential oil in their formulations.
• Livestock farmers who produce feed on their own farm and use sensory additives.
• Animal feed operators (distributors, formulators, integrators) who manage products with this ingredient.
• Quality and regulatory managers in sector companies, who must update technical and labeling documentation.
• Importers and suppliers of star anise essential oil intended for use in feed, who must ensure that the product complies with the specifications of the regulation.

Practical example

A feed manufacturing company for pigs that had been using star anise essential oil as a flavoring in its mixtures must, following the publication of Regulation (EU) 2026/2090, perform the following specific checks:

1. Compare the dose currently used with the maximum limits established in the annex to the regulation.
2. Review the feed labeling to verify that the name of the additive and its category (sensory additive) are declared in accordance with the requirements of the regulation.
3. Update the product technical sheet and internal formulation documentation to reflect the official authorization number of the additive.

If the company also manufactures feed for poultry or ruminants, the process is identical: the authorization covers all animal species, so the same additive can be used across the entire product range, always respecting the specific technical conditions per species that the regulation may establish.

What should companies do now?

1. Review current formulations: Check whether star anise essential oil is already present in any product and, if so, verify that the dose used complies with the limits of Regulation (EU) 2026/2090.
2. Update labeling: Adapt the labels of feeds containing this additive to reflect its official category (sensory additive) and the corresponding authorization number.
3. Review technical documentation: Update technical sheets, product specifications and formulation records with the data from the regulation.
4. Evaluate the opportunity for incorporation: If the company was not using this additive, assess whether its incorporation could improve the palatability and productive results of its feeds, within the authorized conditions.
5. Inform suppliers: Ensure that the essential oil supplied complies with the quality and identity specifications required by the regulation for use in feed.
6. Consult with the regulatory manager: If there are doubts about the interpretation of technical conditions, consult with the regulatory department or with an advisor specialized in animal feed regulations before the next production campaign.

Official source

Consult complete regulation in official source

Disclaimer: This article is for informational purposes only and does not constitute legal advice. For specific decisions, consult a qualified professional. Source: https://eur-lex.europa.eu/./legal-content/AUTO/?uri=OJ:L_202602090