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.
Bating Agent
Bating Agent is a biochemical preparation used primarily in the leather processing industry during the bating stage, which follows liming and deliming. It consists mainly of proteolytic enzymes (such as pancreatin, trypsin, or subtilisin) that break down non-collagenous proteins, hair residues, and unwanted tissue from hides and skins. This enzymatic treatment softens the leather, improves its texture and pliability, and prepares it for tanning. The bating process enhances the quality, uniformity, and appearance of the final leather product.
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.
Diclofenac Sodium BP
Diclofenac Sodium is a nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drug (NSAID) widely used for its potent analgesic, anti-inflammatory, and antipyretic properties. It is the sodium salt form of diclofenac, providing enhanced solubility and rapid absorption. Diclofenac Sodium BP (British Pharmacopoeia standard) ensures pharmaceutical-grade purity and compliance with stringent quality standards. It is commonly formulated in oral tablets, topical gels, injections, and ophthalmic preparations.
Ferric Ammonium Citrate
Ferric Ammonium Citrate is a dark green to black crystalline or granular inorganic compound composed of iron, ammonium ions, and citrate ions. It is a complex salt of citric acid with ferric iron (Fe³⁺) and ammonium. This compound is highly soluble in water, forming a greenish solution, and is widely utilized as a source of iron in various chemical, pharmaceutical, photographic, and food applications. It acts as a mild oxidizing agent and an iron supplement, valued for its bioavailability and ease of incorporation into formulations. Ferric Ammonium Citrate is typically available in different formulations distinguished by their water and ammonium content, such as green and brown types.
Folic Acid
Folic Acid, also known as Vitamin B9 or pteroylmonoglutamic acid, is a water-soluble vitamin essential for numerous physiological processes including DNA synthesis, repair, and methylation, as well as amino acid metabolism. It appears as a yellow to orange-yellow crystalline powder, odorless or with a faint characteristic odor. Folic Acid is vital for cell division and growth, making it critical during pregnancy and periods of rapid growth. It is widely used in the pharmaceutical, nutraceutical, food fortification, and cosmetic industries due to its role in preventing folate deficiency anemia, neural tube defects in newborns, and supporting overall cellular health.
Guaiphenesin BP
Guaiphenesin BP is a white crystalline powder or granules with a faint characteristic odor, classified as an expectorant used primarily in pharmaceutical formulations to relieve chest congestion. It works by loosening and thinning mucus in the airways, making it easier to cough up and clear from the respiratory tract. It is widely utilized in cough syrups, tablets, and cold remedies. Recognized for its mucolytic and muscle-relaxant properties, Guaiphenesin is included in both prescription and over-the-counter medications worldwide.
Magnesium Chloride Hexahydrate BP
Magnesium Chloride Hexahydrate BP is a pharmacopeial grade white crystalline solid with the chemical formula MgCl₂·6H₂O. It is highly soluble in water and is used extensively in pharmaceutical, medical, and industrial applications. This grade meets British Pharmacopoeia (BP) standards ensuring high purity and suitability for medical and food-related uses. Magnesium Chloride Hexahydrate BP provides essential magnesium ions which play a critical role in numerous physiological functions.

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