Do you have questions? Let's talk! Get in Contact
info@betakim.com.tr

Nisin, Nisin A, Nisin Z, E234, 414-45-5

Nisin, Nisin A, Nisin Z, E234, 414-45-5

NISIN (E234)
PRODUCT IDENTIFICATION INFORMATION

Parameter Information
Product Name Nisin
Chemical Name Nisin
Synonyms (Turkish) Nisin, E234
Synonyms (English) Nisin, E234, Nisin A, Nisin Z
E Number E234
CAS Number 414-45-5
Molecular Formula C₁₄₃H₂₂₈O₃₇N₄₂S
Molecular Weight ~3,353 g/mol (Nisin A)
Appearance White to creamy-white powder
Odor Slight characteristic odor
Taste Tasteless

CHEMICAL STRUCTURE

Nisin

Polypeptide Chain (34 Amino Acids)
Contains unusual amino acids: Lanthionine, Methyllanthionine, Dehydroalanine, Dehydrobutyrine

Molecular Formula: C₁₄₃H₂₂₈O₃₇N₄₂S (Nisin A)
SMILES: Not applicable (peptide)
InChI: Not applicable (peptide)
Structure: Polycyclic antibacterial peptide; Lantibiotic (lanthionine-containing antibiotic); 34 amino acid residues; Contains unusual amino acids (lanthionine, β-methyllanthionine, dehydroalanine, dehydrobutyrine); Heat-stable; Active against Gram-positive bacteria.

SECTION 1: CHEMICAL IDENTITY AND DESCRIPTION

Parameter Information
Product Name Nisin
Chemical Name Nisin
Synonyms (Turkish) Nisin, E234
Synonyms (English) Nisin, E234, Nisin A, Nisin Z
E Number E234
CAS Number 414-45-5
Molecular Formula C₁₄₃H₂₂₈O₃₇N₄₂S
Molecular Weight ~3,353 g/mol (Nisin A)
Chemical Class Bacteriocin; Polypeptide; Lantibiotic
Source Lactococcus lactis subsp. lactis (fermentation)
Physical State (20°C) Solid (powder)
Odor Slight characteristic odor
Color White to creamy-white
Taste Tasteless
Biological Source Natural (fermentation product, not chemically synthesized)

SECTION 2: PHYSICAL AND CHEMICAL PROPERTIES

Property Value Test Method / Note
Appearance White to creamy-white powder Visual
Odor Slight characteristic odor Olfactometric
Molecular Weight ~3,353 g/mol (Nisin A)
Activity (Potency) 1,000 – 10,000 IU/mg (grade dependent) Bioassay
Solubility in Water Soluble at low pH (<4.0) General Method
Solubility in Alkaline Solutions Insoluble (degradation above pH 4.0) General Method
Thermal Stability Heat-stable (acidic conditions)
Stability Stable at pH 2-4; Degrades at pH >4
Light Sensitivity Sensitive to direct sunlight
Moisture Sensitivity Stable when dry; Keep in dry conditions
pH Stability Stable at pH 2-4; Degrades at pH >4
Heavy Metals ≤ 10 ppm AAS / ICP
Salmonella Absent Microbiological
E. coli Absent Microbiological
Total Plate Count ≤ 1,000 CFU/g Microbiological
Yeast & Mold ≤ 100 CFU/g Microbiological

SECTION 3: ACTIVITY AND POTENCY GRADES

Grade Activity (IU/mg) Applications
1,000 IU/mg ≥ 1,000 IU/mg Standard food applications
2,500 IU/mg ≥ 2,500 IU/mg Higher activity; Lower dosage required
5,000 IU/mg ≥ 5,000 IU/mg High-activity applications
10,000 IU/mg ≥ 10,000 IU/mg Premium grade; Very low dosage required

SECTION 4: BIOLOGICAL ACTIVITY AND MECHANISM OF ACTION

Property Description
Antimicrobial Spectrum Effective against Gram-positive bacteria; Effective against bacterial spores (heat-resistant spores); Ineffective against Gram-negative bacteria (outer membrane barrier)
Mechanism of Action Binds to cell wall precursor lipid II; Disrupts cell wall synthesis; Forms pores in bacterial membranes; Leads to cell death
Target Bacteria Clostridium botulinumStaphylococcus aureusStreptococcus hemolyticusListeria monocytogenesBacillus cereusBacillus subtilisBacillus stearothermophilusBrochothrix thermosphactaBacillus sporothermodurans
Mode of Action Pore-forming (membrane disruption); Inhibits cell wall synthesis; Bactericidal (kills bacteria)
Stability in Food Stable in acidic foods (pH <4.0); Heat-stable (survives pasteurization); Degraded by digestive enzymes (chymotrypsin)

SECTION 5: PRODUCTION PROCESS

Step Process Description
1 Fermentation Lactococcus lactis subsp. lactis is fermented in controlled conditions
2 Harvesting Fermentation broth is harvested
3 Purification Nisin is purified (filtration, chromatography)
4 Concentration Purified nisin is concentrated
5 Drying Spray-dried or freeze-dried to powder form
6 Standardization Standardized to desired activity (IU/mg)
7 Packaging Packaged in moisture-proof containers

History:

  • 1928: Discovered by Rogers

  • 1947: First isolation

  • 1951: First use in food

  • 1969: Approved by FAO and WHO as food preservative

SECTION 6: FUNCTIONAL PROPERTIES

Property Description
Natural Preservative Natural bacteriocin; Not chemically synthesized; Derived from food-grade bacteria (Lactococcus lactis)
Antibacterial Activity Effective against Gram-positive bacteria and spores; Inhibits Clostridium botulinumListeriaStaphylococcus aureus; Prevents spore germination
Heat Stability Heat-stable in acidic conditions; Survives pasteurization (70-90°C); Can be added before or after heat treatment
Low Dosage Effective at very low concentrations (ppm levels); Cost-effective
Energy Savings Reduces heat treatment time and temperature; Saves energy in processed foods
Tasteless Does not affect food taste; No impact on flavor profile
Safe and Digestible Digested by digestive enzymes (chymotrypsin) in human body; Non-toxic; No side effects
pH Dependent Stable and active at pH 2-4; Degrades at pH >4; Best in acidic foods

SECTION 7: MAIN APPLICATION AREAS

Food Category Maximum Usage (g/kg)
Milk and Dairy Products 0.5
Pickled Vegetables 0.5
Processed Edible Mushrooms and Algae 0.5
Canned/Bottled Edible Mushrooms and Algae 0.2
Canned Coarse Grains 0.2
Other Coarse Grain Products 0.25
Ready-to-Eat Wheat or Rice Products 0.25
Bread 0.3
Cakes and Pastries 0.3
Pre-processed Meat Products 0.5
Cooked Meat Products 0.5
Fully Preserved Fish and Fish Products 0.5
Egg Products 0.25
Vinegar 0.15
Soy Sauce 0.2
Bread and Spread Products 0.2
Mixed Sauces 0.2
Beverages (excluding packaged drinking water) 0.2
Cheese Historically first application; Extends shelf life
Canned Foods Heat treatment energy savings; Shelf life extension

SECTION 8: APPLICATION METHODS

Method Description
Direct Mixing Add nisin powder directly to food during production
Solution Addition Dissolve nisin in solution (low pH water) and add to food
Surface Spraying Spray nisin solution onto food surfaces
Dipping Dip food into nisin solution
Coating Apply as coating during packaging (edible films)

SECTION 9: USAGE INSTRUCTIONS

General Dosing Guide:

Food Category Dosage (g/kg) Notes
Dairy Products 0.1 – 0.5 pH <4.0
Meat Products 0.1 – 0.5 Cooked/processed meats
Canned Products 0.1 – 0.2 Heat-treated
Beverages 0.05 – 0.2 Acidic beverages
Bread/Pastry 0.05 – 0.3 Extends shelf life
Egg Products 0.05 – 0.25 Liquid/pasteurized eggs
Sauces 0.05 – 0.2 Acidic sauces

Instructions:

  1. Dissolution: Nisin is soluble at low pH (pH <4); Use acidified water (citric acid, acetic acid) for dissolution; Warm water helps dissolution.

  2. Addition: Add to food during or after heat treatment; Can be added before or after pasteurization.

  3. Stability: Heat-stable at acidic pH; Protect from direct sunlight and moisture.

  4. Dosage: Start with minimum dosage; Optimize for specific application.

SECTION 10: QUALITY SPECIFICATIONS

Parameter Specification Test Method
Appearance White to creamy-white powder Visual
Activity (Potency) 1,000 – 10,000 IU/mg (grade dependent) Bioassay
Moisture Content ≤ 5% Gravimetric (105°C)
pH (1% Solution) 3.0 – 4.0 pH Meter
Protein Content ≥ 90% Kjeldahl
Heavy Metals (as Pb) ≤ 10 ppm AAS / ICP
Arsenic (As) ≤ 2 ppm AAS / ICP
Lead (Pb) ≤ 1 ppm AAS / ICP
Salmonella Absent Microbiological
E. coli Absent Microbiological
Total Plate Count ≤ 1,000 CFU/g Microbiological
Yeast & Mold ≤ 100 CFU/g Microbiological
Particle Size Customer requirement Sieve / Laser

SECTION 11: TOXICOLOGICAL PROFILE

Parameter Value
Acute Oral Toxicity (LD50, Rat) > 10,000 mg/kg (practically non-toxic)
Acute Dermal Toxicity Non-irritating
Skin Irritation Non-irritating
Eye Irritation May cause mechanical irritation (powder)
Chronic Toxicity Non-toxic; FDA GRAS status; Food additive E234
Carcinogenicity Not classified as carcinogenic
Mutagenicity Not mutagenic
Reproductive Toxicity No reproductive toxicity
Allergenicity No known allergenicity
Digestibility Digested by chymotrypsin in the digestive system
Target Organs None (non-toxic)
Special Toxicity Note Non-toxic; FDA GRAS; EFSA approved; Food additive E234; Natural bacteriocin; Safe for human consumption; No side effects; Digested by digestive enzymes

SECTION 12: GHS CLASSIFICATION AND LABELING

GHS Classification (in accordance with CLP and UN GHS):

Hazard Class Category H-Statement
Not classified as hazardous

SIGNAL WORD: NONE (not classified as hazardous)

Hazard Pictograms: NONE

Hazard Statements (H-Codes): Not classified as hazardous under GHS regulations.

NFPA 704 Hazard Classification:

Health Flammability Reactivity Special
1 1 0 -
(Slight health hazard – dust) (Combustible – dust may form explosive mixture) (Stable) (None)

SECTION 13: PRECAUTIONARY STATEMENTS (P-CODES)

Code Statement
P261 Avoid breathing dust/fume/gas/mist/vapors/spray
P264 Wash hands thoroughly after handling
P271 Use only outdoors or in a well-ventilated area
P280 Wear protective gloves/protective clothing/eye protection/face protection
P302+P352 IF ON SKIN: Wash with plenty of soap and water
P304+P340 IF INHALED: Remove person to fresh air and keep comfortable for breathing
P305+P351+P338 IF IN EYES: Rinse cautiously with water for several minutes. Remove contact lenses if present and continue rinsing
P312 Call a POISON CENTER/doctor if you feel unwell
P332+P313 If skin irritation occurs: Get medical advice/attention
P337+P313 If eye irritation persists: Get medical advice/attention
P362+P364 Take off contaminated clothing and wash it before reuse
P403+P233 Store in a well-ventilated place. Keep container tightly closed
P501 Dispose of contents/container in accordance with local/regional/national/international regulations

SECTION 14: FIRST AID MEASURES

Exposure Route Action to Take
Inhalation Remove to fresh air immediately. If respiratory irritation develops (dust inhalation), seek medical attention.
Skin Contact Wash with plenty of soap and water. If irritation persists, get medical attention.
Eye Contact Rinse immediately with plenty of water for at least 15 minutes. Keep eyelids open. Remove contact lenses if present. If irritation persists, seek medical attention.
Ingestion Rinse mouth. Drink plenty of water. Generally non-toxic. If large quantities are ingested and symptoms occur, seek medical attention.

SECTION 15: FIREFIGHTING MEASURES

Parameter Information
Fire Hazard Combustible organic material. Dust cloud may form explosive mixture with air (if finely dispersed).
Hazards Arising from Fire Thermal decomposition produces carbon monoxide, carbon dioxide, nitrogen oxides (NOx), sulfur oxides (SOx).
Suitable Extinguishing Media Water spray, CO₂, dry chemical powder, foam.
Unsuitable Extinguishing Media Water jet (may spread dust)
Special Protective Equipment Self-contained breathing apparatus (SCBA), full protective clothing (for surrounding fire).
Special Precautions Prevent dust from entering sewers and waterways. Avoid dust cloud formation.

SECTION 16: STORAGE AND SHELF LIFE

Parameter Information
Storage Conditions Store in a cool, dry, well-ventilated area; PROTECT FROM MOISTURE and direct sunlight; Store at room temperature (15-25°C).
Container Requirements Tightly closed, moisture-proof, light-proof containers (aluminum foil-lined bags, HDPE containers).
Materials to Protect From Moisture, direct sunlight, high humidity, strong oxidizing agents
Shelf Life 24 – 36 months (in unopened original packaging, under proper storage conditions).
Stability Note Stable when dry; Light-sensitive; Keep container tightly closed after opening; Protect from excessive humidity and light; Nisin is stable at 415°C in dry conditions (without moisture).
Special Storage Requirements Store in a dry, well-ventilated warehouse; Avoid exposure to rain, sun, and moisture; Opened containers must be resealed immediately.

SECTION 17: PACKAGING OPTIONS

Packaging Type Quantity Material
Aluminum Foil Bag 100 g, 500 g, 1 kg Aluminum foil laminated bag (moisture and light-proof)
Plastic Bag 5 kg, 10 kg PE bag (inner-lined, sealed, moisture-proof)
Fiber Drum 10 kg, 20 kg PE-lined fiberboard drum
Plastic Drum 25 kg HDPE / Polypropylene (moisture-proof)
Small Pack 10 g, 50 g Foil-lined plastic bags (laboratory/sample)

SECTION 18: TRANSPORT INFORMATION

Parameter Information
UN Number Not regulated (non-hazardous)
Hazard Class Not applicable
Packing Group Not applicable
ADR/RID Not regulated
IMDG Code Not regulated (non-hazardous)
IATA (Air) Not regulated (non-hazardous)
Marine Pollutant No
Transport Temperature Ambient temperature; Protect from moisture and light.

SECTION 19: REGULATORY STATUS

Region / Authority Status
European Union Food additive E234 approved by EFSA; Natural preservative; Not classified as hazardous
USA (TSCA) Listed (TSCA Inventory)
USA (FDA) GRAS (Generally Recognized as Safe) – 21 CFR 184.1538; Food additive E234
Turkey Food additive E234; Subject to KKDIK regulation; Turkish Food Codex approved
IARC Not classified (non-toxic, non-carcinogenic)
NTP Not listed
OSHA Not regulated as toxic or carcinogenic substance
California (Prop 65) Not listed
FAO/WHO Approved (1969)
Halal Yes (if certified)
Kosher Yes (if certified)
Vegan Yes (fermentation-derived)

SECTION 20: OTHER NAMES AND SYNONYMS

Type Name
Turkish Names Nisin, E234
English Names Nisin, E234, Nisin A, Nisin Z
Chemical Names Nisin; Lantibiotic; Bacteriocin
E Number E234
CAS Number 414-45-5
Synonyms Nisaplin (brand), Nisin preparation, Nisin powder

SECTION 21: SUMMARY TABLE

Parameter Value
Product Nisin (E234)
CAS Number 414-45-5
Molecular Formula C₁₄₃H₂₂₈O₃₇N₄₂S
Molecular Weight ~3,353 g/mol
Appearance White to creamy-white powder
Activity 1,000 – 10,000 IU/mg (grade dependent)
Primary Function Natural preservative, antibacterial
Main Application Areas Dairy, meat, canned products, beverages, sauces, bread, pastry, egg products
Shelf Life 24 – 36 months
GHS Signal Word NONE (not classified as hazardous)
UN Number Not regulated
Special Properties Natural bacteriocin; Effective against Gram-positive bacteria; Heat-stable; Low dosage; Tasteless; Non-toxic; FDA GRAS; E234 approved

SECTION 22: CRITICAL WARNINGS AND BEST PRACTICES

CRITICAL WARNINGS:

  • Not classified as hazardous under GHS. Non-toxic, non-carcinogenic. FDA GRAS status.

  • Food additive E234 – Approved by EFSA, FDA, and WHO JECFA.

  • Hygroscopic – absorbs moisture from air. Store in tightly closed, moisture-proof containers.

  • Light sensitive – protect from direct sunlight. Store in opaque packaging.

  • Dust may cause mechanical irritation to eyes, skin, and respiratory system. Use appropriate dust control measures.

  • Combustible (organic material). Keep away from open flames and high heat. Dust cloud may form explosive mixture.

  • Activity depends on pH – stable at pH 2-4; Degrades at pH >4; Best activity in acidic foods.

  • Effective against Gram-positive bacteria only – not effective against Gram-negative bacteria.

  • Low dosage – effective at ppm levels; Start with minimum dosage.

  • Heat-stable – survives pasteurization; Can be added before or after heat treatment.

  • Digested by enzymes – safe for human consumption; Broken down by chymotrypsin.

BEST PRACTICE RECOMMENDATIONS:

Dairy Products: Use as preservative to extend shelf life; Dosage 0.1-0.5 g/kg; Effective against Clostridium and Listeria; Best in acidic dairy products (cheese, yogurt); Add before or after pasteurization.

Meat Products: Use as preservative in cooked and processed meats; Dosage 0.1-0.5 g/kg; Effective against Clostridium botulinum and Listeria; Reduces heat treatment time; Extends shelf life.

Canned Products: Use as preservative in canned foods; Dosage 0.1-0.2 g/kg; Heat-stable; Reduces energy consumption; Improves food safety; Extends shelf life.

Beverages: Use as preservative in acidic beverages; Dosage 0.05-0.2 g/kg; Effective at low pH; No taste impact; Use for fruit juices, soft drinks.

Bread and Pastry: Use as preservative; Dosage 0.05-0.3 g/kg; Extends shelf life; Prevents mold growth; No taste impact.

Egg Products: Use as preservative in liquid/pasteurized eggs; Dosage 0.05-0.25 g/kg; Effective against Salmonella and Listeria; Heat-stable.

Handling: Use in well-ventilated areas; Avoid dust formation; Use dust masks (N95/FFP2) when handling powder; Use gloves and safety goggles.

Personal Protective Equipment: Dust mask (N95/FFP2 or higher), safety goggles, protective gloves (nitrile, neoprene). Not required for solution handling.

Hygiene: Wash hands thoroughly after handling; Do not eat, drink, or smoke while using.

Storage: Store in tightly closed, moisture-proof, light-proof containers; Store in a cool, dry, well-ventilated area; Protect from moisture, light, and heat; Opened containers must be resealed immediately; Shelf life: 24-36 months under proper conditions.

Spill Management: Sweep or vacuum (HEPA) and place in suitable sealed container; Avoid dust formation; Do not allow entry into drains or waterways.

Disposal: Dispose of in accordance with local, regional, and national regulations; Non-hazardous waste; Biodegradable; Can be disposed of in compliance with regulations.

NISIN ADVANTAGES - SUMMARY:

Advantage Description
Natural Not chemically synthesized; Produced by fermentation
Effective Strong antibacterial activity at low concentrations
Heat Stable Survives pasteurization and heat treatment
Energy Saving Reduces heat treatment time and temperature
Safe Non-toxic; Digested by enzymes; No side effects
Tasteless No impact on food taste
Low Dosage Cost-effective; Effective at ppm levels
Broad Application Works in dairy, meat, canned, beverages, sauces, etc.
FDA/EFSA Approved Regulatory approval for food use
Clean Label Natural preservative; Consumer-friendly

LEGAL DISCLAIMER:
The information provided in this document is based on our current knowledge and experience and is presented in good faith. However, as all conditions of use are beyond our control, it does not constitute a binding specification or warranty. This Technical Data Sheet is for informational purposes only. Users are responsible for testing the suitability for their own applications. For complete safety, storage, use, handling, waste, and regulatory compliance information, please refer to the official Safety Data Sheet (SDS/MSDS) provided by the manufacturer/supplier.

Images

Do you have questions? Let us help!

Effective Business Solutions? — Get in Contact
Scroll