Papain
What is Papain?
Papain is a proteolytic enzyme, meaning it breaks down proteins. It is derived from the latex of the papaya fruit (Carica papaya). The enzyme is typically extracted from unripe papayas and then purified.
Is Papain vegan?
Papain is not animal-derived. Products that contain it can still include other animal-derived ingredients, so check the full ingredient list.
Is Papain a major allergen?
Papain is not one of the 14 major allergens that must be emphasised on UK food labels.
What is Papain used for?
Papain is used as a meat tenderiser, breaking down tough muscle fibres.
Is Papain safe?
Papain is authorised as a food additive in the UK and the EU, listed under E611.
Why it's used
Papain is used as a meat tenderiser, breaking down tough muscle fibres. It also functions as a processing aid in the production of certain foods, such as aiding in the breakdown of proteins in beverages or as a dough conditioner in baking. It is found in some protein supplements and food supplements.
Health notes
Papain is authorised as a food additive in the UK and the EU, listed under E611. The European Food Safety Authority (EFSA) has evaluated papain. At typical intake levels found in food, papain is not associated with adverse health effects. Some individuals may experience allergic reactions, particularly those with existing latex or papaya allergies.
Allergen info
Papain is not one of the 14 major allergens that must be emphasised on UK food labels. It is derived from papaya, which is a fruit.
Foods that contain Papain
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