Food Additives Encyclopedia

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lysozyme ​

Basic Information ​

FieldContent
Chinese namelysozyme
English namelysozyme
INS/E numberINS 1105
Functional classPreservative
Year adopted1974
Approved byAustralia/New Zealand (FSANZ), European Union (EFSA)

What is it? ​

Lysozyme is an enzyme that hydrolyses the peptidoglycan of bacterial cell walls, found widely in egg white, saliva and milk, commonly extracted from egg white. In foods it serves as a natural preservative/antimicrobial, especially in cheese.

Source ​

Natural：鸡蛋蛋清（或微生物发酵）

Why is it used? ​

  • Inhibits Gram-positive bacteria to extend cheese shelf-life
  • Reduces gas formation and spoilage in cheese
  • Natural preservative replacing some chemical preservatives
  • Antimicrobial in fermented foods and beverages
  • Improves safety and clean-label profile

Common Foods ​

  • Cheese (especially hard cheeses)
  • Fermented dairy
  • Meat products and sausages
  • Wine and beer
  • Fruit and vegetable juices
  • Infant foods

Safety ​

ADI (Acceptable Daily Intake)：Not applicable (evaluated, no limit set)

Concerns：

  • 蛋清过敏者可能过敏
  • 须声明来源与转因状态
  • 对某些革兰氏阴性菌无效

Usage Standard ​

China：GB 2760《食品安全国家标准 食品添加剂使用标准》（酶制剂/防腐剂）；GB 1886.174 食品安全国家标准 食品添加剂 食品工业用酶制剂

International：

  • EU Regulation 1333/2008 Annex II (E 1105)
  • FDA GRAS (egg-white lysozyme, antimicrobial)
  • Codex GSFA (INS 1105)
  • FSANZ Food Standards Code (1105)
  • JECFA Monograph (Lysozyme)

In a nutshell ​

Lysozyme is a natural antimicrobial enzyme from egg white, mainly used to preserve cheese; caution for egg allergy.

Consumer Advice ​

Lysozyme is an enzyme extracted from egg white with antibacterial activity, commonly used as a preservative in cheese, sausages, and some wines to extend shelf life. Because it comes from eggs, vegans should avoid it, and people allergic to eggs may experience allergic reactions to lysozyme-containing products, so always check ingredient labels. It is safe for non-egg-allergic people when used according to regulations.

Dietary Restrictions ​

  • Vegan: ❌
  • Halal: ✅
  • Kosher: ✅

Allergens ​

⚠️ Contains allergens

Disclaimer ​

The information provided here is for discussion and educational purposes only. It is not medical advice or an evaluation/rating of any product or ingredient. This information may not apply to you; before using or taking any action, you should contact the manufacturer, vendor, medical, dietary, fitness, or other professionals. If you use any information provided here, you do so at your own risk.