Food Additives Encyclopedia

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nisin ​

Basic Information ​

FieldContent
Chinese namenisin
English namenisin
INS/E numberINS 234
Functional classPreservative
Year adopted1969
Approved byAustralia/New Zealand (FSANZ), European Union (EFSA)

What is it? ​

Nisin is a polypeptide bacteriocin produced by fermentation of Lactococcus lactis; it inhibits Gram-positive bacteria and is a natural biological preservative.

Source ​

Natural：乳酸链球菌（Lactococcus lactis）发酵，以脱脂乳/蛋白胨、糖等为培养基

Why is it used? ​

  • Inhibits spoilage and toxin-forming Gram-positive bacteria (e.g. Bacillus, Staphylococcus)
  • Extends shelf life of cheese, canned foods, etc.
  • Assists thermal destruction of heat-resistant spores
  • Natural origin, digested by proteases, high safety

Common Foods ​

  • Processed cheese and cheese products
  • Canned foods
  • Meat products (ham, sausages)
  • Dairy products
  • Soups and sauces

Safety ​

ADI (Acceptable Daily Intake)：not specified (GMP)

Concerns：

  • 仅对革兰氏阳性菌有效
  • 对部分人群极少数过敏（罕见）

Usage Standard ​

China：GB 2760《食品安全国家标准 食品添加剂使用标准》

International：

  • EU Regulation 1333/2008 Annex II (E 234)
  • FDA 21 CFR 184.1538 (Nisin preparation, GRAS)
  • Codex GSFA (INS 234)
  • Australia New Zealand Food Standards Code (Nisin)
  • JECFA Monograph (ADI not specified)

In a nutshell ​

Nisin is a natural fermented peptide preservative that is safe, effective and widely accepted.

Consumer Advice ​

Nisin is a natural antimicrobial peptide (a protein-type preservative) produced by fermentation with lactic acid bacteria. It inhibits many Gram-positive bacteria and their spores and is used in cheese, processed cheese, meat products and canned foods. Being natural and digested like other proteins, it has a high safety profile and is approved by regulators worldwide. It poses no allergy risk for almost everyone and is very safe at permitted levels.

Dietary Restrictions ​

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

Allergens ​

✅ Free from common 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.