Animal-Based Rennet
Also known as: animal rennet
Animal-based rennet is the traditional cheese-making coagulant and is permitted under both U.S. and EU regulation.
What it is
Rennet derived from the stomachs (abomasum) of young ruminants (calves, lambs, kids), containing chymosin (rennin) and pepsin.
Coagulating enzyme used to curdle milk in cheese production.
Why it's flagged
- bovine source must comply with BSE/TSE regulations
- not suitable for vegetarian/vegan or some religious diets
What regulators actually say
"Rennet (animal-derived) and chymosin preparation (animal-derived) are obtained from the fourth stomach (abomasum) of calves, kids, or lambs... GRAS when used in accordance with good manufacturing practice."
"Regulation (EC) No 999/2001 lays down rules for the prevention, control and eradication of certain transmissible spongiform encephalopathies."
Regulatory status
United States — FDA
Permitted enzyme — rennet listed under 21 CFR 184.1685 (rennet, animal-derived); GRAS for cheese making.
European Union — EFSA
Permitted food enzyme; bovine source must comply with Reg. (EC) 999/2001 (TSE).
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