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.

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Categories: Enzymes, Nutraceutical Ingredients (pharmaceutical) Tags: Anti-inflammatory agent, Dietary supplement ingredient, Meat tenderizer, Natural enzyme extract, Pharmaceutical enzyme, Pineapple enzyme, Plant-based enzyme

Description

Table of Contents

Bromelain

Primary Uses

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.

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.

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.

Industrial Applications

Employed in the production of protein hydrolysates and flavor enhancers.
Used in textile and leather industries for dehairing and softening.

Secondary Uses

Oral Care

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

Veterinary Medicine

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

Research & Biotechnology

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

KEY PRODUCT FEATURES

1. 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 CO₂ 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