papain
Papain is a proteolytic enzyme extracted from the latex of the papaya fruit (Carica papaya). It breaks down proteins into peptides and amino acids, making it widely used in various industries. Papain has excellent catalytic activity and works effectively across a broad pH range, especially in neutral to slightly alkaline conditions. It is valued for its meat tenderizing, digestive aid, and therapeutic properties.
papain
Primary Uses
- Food Industry
- Used as a meat tenderizer by breaking down tough muscle fibers.
- Employed in brewing and beverage production to clarify beer and juice.
- Added to chewing gums as a proteolytic agent to enhance texture.
- Utilized in protein hydrolysis for flavor enhancement and nutritional supplements.
- Pharmaceutical & Medical Applications
- Used in digestive enzyme supplements to aid protein digestion.
- Applied topically in wound care products for debridement of dead tissue.
- Incorporated in anti-inflammatory and anti-edema formulations.
- Used in enzyme therapy to reduce swelling and inflammation.
- Cosmetics & Personal Care
- Incorporated in exfoliating and skin care products for gentle removal of dead skin cells.
- Used in hair care formulations to improve scalp health and reduce dandruff.
Secondary Uses
- Textile Industry
- Used in the treatment of fibers and fabric processing for biopolishing.
- Leather Industry
- Applied in leather softening and dehairing processes.
- Research Applications
- Employed in biochemical studies involving protein digestion and peptide mapping.
- Agriculture
- Used as a natural pesticide and plant growth enhancer in some formulations.
1. Basic Identification Attributes
- Chemical Name (IUPAC): Papain (EC 3.4.22.2)
- Common/Trade Name: Papain
- CAS Number: 9001-73-4
- HS Code: 3507.90.00
- Synonyms: Papaya enzyme; papaya proteinase; papaya latex enzyme
2. Physical & Chemical Properties
- Physical State: Fine, off-white to light yellow powder
- Color & Odor: Slight characteristic odor
- Solubility: Soluble in water
- pH Optimum: 6.0 – 7.0
- Enzyme Activity: Measured in units (varies by grade and purity)
- Molecular Weight: Approx. 23-25 kDa
3. Safety & Hazard Attributes
- GHS Classification: Generally regarded as non-hazardous
- Toxicity: Low toxicity; may cause allergic skin reactions in sensitive individuals
- Exposure Limits: No specific limits; standard enzyme handling precautions advised
4. Storage & Handling Attributes
- Storage Conditions: Store in a cool, dry place below 25°C, protected from moisture and light
- Container Type: Supplied in sealed plastic or glass containers
- Shelf Life: 12–24 months if stored properly
- Handling Precautions: Avoid inhalation of dust and direct skin contact to prevent sensitization
5. Regulatory & Compliance Attributes
- Complies with food-grade enzyme standards (FCC)
- Approved for use in food, pharmaceutical, and cosmetic industries by relevant authorities
- Meets purity and activity requirements set by ISO and JECFA
6. Environmental & Health Impact
- Biodegradability: Fully biodegradable
- Ecotoxicity: Low environmental risk
- Allergenic Potential: Possible respiratory sensitizer; avoid inhalation of dust
- Safety: Non-carcinogenic and non-mutagenic
Safety Handling Precautions
- PPE Required: Use gloves, masks, and protective clothing when handling powder
- Handling Guidelines: Use in well-ventilated areas; avoid dust generation
- Storage Measures: Keep containers tightly closed and dry
First Aid Measures
- Inhalation: Move to fresh air; seek medical attention if respiratory irritation occurs
- Skin Contact: Wash with soap and water; discontinue use if irritation or allergic reaction develops
- Eye Contact: Rinse thoroughly with water for at least 15 minutes; seek medical advice if irritation persists
- Ingestion: Rinse mouth; seek medical advice if large quantities ingested
Firefighting Measures
- Fire Hazards: Non-flammable
- Extinguishing Media: Use water spray, foam, or dry chemical extinguishers
- Special Precautions: Avoid inhalation of dust during fire
- Hazardous Combustion Products: May produce carbon oxides and nitrogen oxides upon burning
Related products
Amylase Baking Enzyme
Amylase Baking Enzyme is a class of enzymes that catalyzes the hydrolysis of starch into sugars such as maltose and glucose. In the baking industry, amylases are widely used to improve dough handling, enhance fermentation, increase loaf volume, improve crumb softness, and extend shelf life. The enzyme is typically derived from microbial (fungal or bacterial) sources like Aspergillus oryzae or Bacillus subtilis. Commercial baking amylase products may include α-amylase, β-amylase, and glucoamylase, depending on application needs.
Bromelain
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.
Calcium Gluconate
Calcium Gluconate is a calcium salt of gluconic acid appearing as a white, odorless, crystalline powder or colorless crystals. It is highly soluble in water and commonly used as a calcium supplement in pharmaceuticals and food products. Calcium Gluconate plays a critical role in medicine for treating calcium deficiencies, hypocalcemia, and as an antidote for hydrofluoric acid burns. Its excellent bioavailability makes it a preferred calcium source in oral and intravenous formulations. Additionally, it is utilized in food fortification and cosmetic applications due to its safety and compatibility.
Citric Acid Monohydrate
Citric Acid Monohydrate is a white, crystalline powder or granule form of citric acid containing one molecule of water per molecule of acid. It is a natural organic acid commonly derived from citrus fruits or produced by fermentation processes. Citric Acid Monohydrate is widely used as an acidulant, preservative, and chelating agent in various industries. Compared to the anhydrous form, it has a slightly lower acid concentration due to the water molecule but offers excellent solubility and stability. It is prized for its sour flavor, buffering capacity, and ability to bind metal ions, making it indispensable in food, pharmaceutical, cosmetic, and industrial applications.
Fumaric Acid
Fumaric Acid is a naturally occurring dicarboxylic acid characterized by its white crystalline powder form and a slightly acidic taste. It is an unsaturated organic acid with the chemical formula C4H4O4 and is an intermediate in the Krebs cycle in biological systems. Fumaric Acid is commonly found in various plants and fungi and is commercially produced by isomerization of maleic acid or by fermentation. It is widely used in the food, pharmaceutical, chemical, and polymer industries due to its acidulant, antioxidant, and crosslinking properties.
Guanidine Carbonate
Guanidine Carbonate is a white crystalline powder, highly soluble in water, with strong basicity and high nitrogen content. It’s a versatile chemical intermediate widely used in pharmaceuticals, agriculture, polymer chemistry, textiles, and laboratory research. Its buffering properties and reactivity make it valuable in synthesis, pH regulation, and as a nitrogen source.
Prednisolone Base
Prednisolone Base is a synthetic glucocorticoid steroid widely used for its potent anti-inflammatory and immunosuppressive properties. It is the active form of prednisolone, commonly administered in various pharmaceutical formulations including tablets, injectables, and topical creams. This compound helps manage conditions involving inflammation, allergic reactions, and immune system disorders by modulating the body’s response to these processes.
Protease Baking Enzymes
Protease Baking Enzymes are specialized enzymes that catalyze the breakdown of proteins into peptides and amino acids. In baking, these enzymes improve dough handling, texture, and volume by modifying gluten structure and enhancing gas retention. They help produce softer crumb, better crust, and increased shelf life of baked goods. Protease enzymes are essential for consistent quality and efficiency in commercial baking operations.

Preservatives(food)
Flavor Enhancers
Acidulants
Sweeteners
Antioxidants
Colorants(food)
Nutraceutical Ingredients (food)
Nutrient Supplements
Emulsifiers
Collectors
Dust Suppressants
Explosives and Blasting Agents
Flocculants and Coagulants
Frothers
Leaching Agents
pH Modifiers
Precious Metal Extraction Agents
Antioxidants(plastic)
Colorants (Pigments, Dyes)
Fillers and Reinforcements
Flame Retardants
Monomers
Plasticizers
Polymerization Initiators
Stabilizers (UV, Heat)
Antifoaming Agents
Chelating Agents
Coagulants and Flocculants
Corrosion Inhibitors
Disinfectants and Biocides
Oxidizing Agents
pH Adjusters
Scale Inhibitors( water)
Antioxidants(cosmetic)
Emollients
Fragrances and Essential Oils
Humectants
Preservatives
Surfactants(cosmetic)
Thickeners
UV Filters
Fertilizers
Soil Conditioners
Plant Growth Regulators
Animal Feed Additives
Biostimulants
Pesticides (Herbicides, Insecticides, Fungicides)
Active Pharmaceutical Ingredients (APIs)
Excipients
Solvents(pharmaceutical)
Antibiotics
Antiseptics and Disinfectants
Vaccine Adjuvants
Nutraceutical Ingredients (pharmaceutical)
Analgesics & Antipyretics
Analytical Reagents
Solvents(lab)
Chromatography Chemicals
Spectroscopy Reagents
microbiology-and-cell-culture-reagents
Molecular Biology Reagents
Biochemical Reagents
Inorganic and Organic Standards
Laboratory Safety Chemicals
Specialty Laboratory Chemicals(Special Laboratory Equipment)
Demulsifiers
Hydraulic Fracturing Fluids
Scale Inhibitors(oil)
Surfactants(oil)
Drilling Fluids
Dyes and Pigments
Bleaching Agents
Softening Agents
Finishing Agents
Antistatic Agents
Admixtures
Waterproofing Agents
Sealants and Adhesives
Curing Compounds
Concrete Repair Chemicals
Anti-Corrosion Coatings
Surfactants(cleaning)
Builders
Enzymes
Solvents (Cleaning)
Fragrances
Electronic Chemicals
Catalysts
Lubricants
Photographic Chemicals
Refrigerants
Automotive chemicals
Pyrotechnic Chemicals
Biodegradable Surfactants
Bio-based Solvents
Renewable Polymers
Carbon Capture Chemicals
Wastewater Treatment Chemicals
Pigments
Solvents(paint)
Specialty Coatings
Binders/Resins
Additives
Driers
Anti-Corrosion Agents
Functional Coatings
Application-Specific Coatings
Leavening Agents
Dough Conditioners
Flour Treatments
Fat Replacers
Decoratives
Preservatives(baking)
Plasticizers & Softeners
Reinforcing Agents
Adhesion Promoters
Vulcanizing Agents
Antidegradants
Blowing Agents
Fillers & Extenders
Accelerators & Retarders