Pepsin
Pepsin is a GRAS food enzyme used for cheese coagulation and processing. It is inactivated during processing.
What it is
A proteolytic enzyme produced in the stomach of mammals that cleaves proteins into smaller peptides; commercially extracted from porcine or bovine stomach mucosa.
Used as a milk-coagulating enzyme in cheese production and as a digestive aid; also used in protein hydrolysate manufacture.
Why it's flagged
- animal-source enzyme (dietary restrictions)
- occupational respiratory sensitization for workers
What regulators actually say
"Pepsin is the principal proteolytic enzyme of gastric juice. It is prepared from glandular layer of hog stomach. The ingredient is used as an enzyme... It is generally recognized as safe."
"Regulation (EC) No 1332/2008 establishes harmonised rules for food enzymes used in food."
Regulatory status
United States — FDA
GRAS as enzyme preparation under 21 CFR 184.1408.
European Union — EFSA
Permitted as food enzyme under Regulation (EC) No 1332/2008.
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