Feed additives in the EU can exert an effect on feedstuffs or in animals. For the latter, it is important to show that the compounds for which an authorisation is sought are safe and efficacious for the target species, whether livestock or pets. This requires careful design of studies considering the requirements of the recently updated EFSA safety and efficacy guidelines. Dr Eliana Henriquez and Dr Hannah Lester of Pentec Consulting discuss and conclude that these guidelines are valuable resources in ensuring compliance upon entering the EU market.