Bromelain

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Bromelain is a natural mixture of proteolytic enzymes derived primarily from the stem and fruit of the pineapple plant (Ananas comosus). It appears as a pale yellow to off-white powder with a characteristic mild odor and is water-soluble. Bromelain exhibits protease activity, breaking down proteins into peptides and amino acids, making it valuable in medical, food, and industrial applications. It is widely used as an anti-inflammatory agent, digestive aid, meat tenderizer, and in cosmetic formulations due to its enzymatic and therapeutic properties.

Description

Primary Uses 

  1. Pharmaceuticals & Therapeutics

  • Used as an anti-inflammatory and analgesic agent to reduce swelling and pain associated with injuries, surgeries, and osteoarthritis.

  • Incorporated in digestive enzyme supplements to aid protein digestion and support gastrointestinal health.

  • Utilized to improve wound healing and reduce tissue inflammation.

  1. Food Industry

  • Used as a meat tenderizer due to its ability to hydrolyze tough protein fibers.

  • Added to brewing and baking processes to improve clarity and texture by breaking down proteins.

  1. Cosmetics & Personal Care

  • Included in exfoliating and skin care products for its ability to gently remove dead skin cells and improve skin texture.

  • Used in formulations aimed at reducing inflammation and promoting skin healing.

  1. Industrial Applications

  • Employed in the production of protein hydrolysates and flavor enhancers.

  • Used in textile and leather industries for dehairing and softening.

Secondary Uses 

  1. Oral Care

  • Incorporated in some dental products for plaque reduction and gum inflammation control.

  1. Veterinary Medicine

  • Used as a digestive aid and anti-inflammatory agent in animals.

  1. Research & Biotechnology

  • Utilized as a biochemical tool for protein digestion and cell dissociation in laboratory settings.

 

PRODUCT KEY FEATURES

 Basic Identification Attributes

  • Chemical Name (IUPAC): Protease enzyme from Ananas comosus

  • Common/Trade Name: Bromelain

  • CAS Number: 9001-00-7 (commercial enzyme preparation)

  • HS Code: 3507.90.00

  • Molecular Formula: Mixture of proteolytic enzymes (variable)

  • Synonyms:

    • Pineapple protease

    • Ananas protease

    • Stem bromelain

2. Physical & Chemical Properties

  • Physical State: Powder or granules

  • Color & Odor: Pale yellow to off-white; mild characteristic odor

  • Melting Point: Not applicable (enzyme denatures at ~50-60°C)

  • Boiling Point: Not applicable

  • Density: Varies, typically low bulk density (~0.3-0.6 g/cm³)

  • Solubility: Soluble in water; insoluble in organic solvents

  • pH Range: Active in pH 4.0–9.0; optimum activity around pH 6.0–7.0

  • Temperature Stability: Active up to ~50°C; denatures at higher temperatures

  • Stability: Sensitive to heat, extreme pH, and protease inhibitors

3. Safety & Hazard Attributes

  • Hazard Class (GHS): Not classified as hazardous but may cause allergic reactions in sensitive individuals

  • NFPA Ratings:

    • Health: 1 (mild irritant)

    • Flammability: 0

    • Reactivity: 0

  • Exposure Limits: No specific OSHA/ACGIH limits; avoid inhalation of dust

  • Toxicity: Low toxicity; potential allergen

  • Reactivity: Enzymatic activity can be inhibited by specific chemicals and temperature extremes

4. Storage & Handling Attributes

  • Storage Conditions: Store in a cool, dry place, preferably refrigerated (2–8°C) to maintain enzyme activity

  • Container Type: Airtight, moisture-proof containers (e.g., vacuum-sealed bags or HDPE jars)

  • Shelf Life: Typically 1–2 years under proper storage conditions

  • Special Handling: Avoid moisture and heat exposure; use PPE to avoid respiratory sensitization

5. Regulatory & Compliance Attributes

  • FDA Status: Generally recognized as safe (GRAS) for use in food and supplements

  • Pharmacopoeia Compliance: Included in some pharmacopeias for enzyme preparations

  • Transportation: Not classified as hazardous

  • Waste Disposal: Non-hazardous; dispose of according to local regulations

6. Environmental & Health Impact

  • Ecotoxicity: Low; biodegradable enzyme protein

  • Persistence: Biodegrades naturally in the environment

  • Bioaccumulation: Not expected to bioaccumulate

  • Carcinogenicity/Mutagenicity: Not classified as carcinogenic or mutagenic

  • Biodegradability: Readily biodegradable

 

SAFETY HANDLING PRECAUTIONS

Safety Handling Precautions

Personal Protective Equipment (PPE):

  • Gloves

  • Protective goggles

  • Dust mask or respirator (to prevent inhalation of powder)

  • Lab coat or protective clothing

Handling Measures:

  • Avoid inhalation of dust

  • Handle in well-ventilated areas

  • Prevent moisture contact to preserve enzyme activity

Storage Measures:

  • Keep container tightly closed

  • Protect from heat and humidity

Hygiene Practices:

  • Wash hands thoroughly after handling

  • Do not eat, drink, or smoke during handling

 

First Aid Measures

  • Inhalation: Move to fresh air; seek medical advice if respiratory irritation or allergic symptoms develop

  • Skin Contact: Wash affected area with soap and water; seek medical attention if irritation occurs

  • Eye Contact: Rinse eyes thoroughly with water for at least 15 minutes; seek medical attention if irritation persists

  • Ingestion: Rinse mouth with water; seek medical attention if large quantities ingested or symptoms occur

 

Firefighting Measures

  • Fire Hazards: Non-flammable

  • Extinguishing Media: Use water spray, foam, dry chemical, or COâ‚‚ as appropriate for surrounding fire

  • Special Precautions: Firefighters should wear protective gear; bromelain itself does not pose fire hazard

  • Decomposition Products: May emit nitrogen oxides or other organic compounds if exposed to extreme heat