Ingredient · Updated
Enzymes
Found in 41 productsSee all
Sierra Nevada Raw Milk Cheddar 
izzio Artisan Bakery Rustic Italian Sourdough 
Kerrygold Dubliner Cheese 
Cabot Vermont Sharp Cheddar 
Président Soft-Ripened Brie 
Armagh Creamery Doublin' Down Brie-Style Soft Ripened Cheese 
Tillamook Whole Milk Mozzarella Farmstyle Shreds 
Cabot Creamery CABOT, PREMIUM PEPPER JACK CHEESE What is Enzymes?
Enzymes are proteins that act as catalysts in biochemical reactions, increasing the rate at which reactions occur without being consumed in the process. They are produced naturally by living organisms and can also be manufactured through fermentation processes using bacteria, fungi, or plants.
In the food industry, enzymes are used to enhance flavor, improve texture, and aid in food processing, such as in cheese-making where they help coagulate milk. While naturally occurring, their addition as an isolated ingredient may raise concerns about food processing.
When you see enzymes on a label, they are usually included to improve the consistency or flavor profile of a product. They are generally recognized as safe, though some specific types, like microbial enzymes, may be preferable due to dietary or ethical considerations.
Commonly found in: Cheese, Bread, Juices, Beer, Crackers, Yogurt
Benefits
- Facilitate the breakdown of complex molecules, enhancing digestibility.
- Can improve the efficiency and yield of food production processes.
Enzymes are generally recognized as safe (GRAS) when used in food.
Research supports the role of enzymes in improving food quality and digestibility, with few reported health concerns.
Some enzymes are derived from animal sources, but microbial enzymes provide a vegan-friendly option.
Sources: GRAS for Enzymes · Enzymes in Food Processing
Scout's take
Standard formulation ingredient — neither beneficial nor harmful at typical use.
The case against
There are minimal risks associated with enzymes in cleaning products.
from the analysis of Bio-Vert Dishwasher TabletsThe case for
Enhances dough handling and improves bread quality.
from the analysis of Essential Baking San Francisco Style Sourdough, Artisan Bread · echoed in 3 other analysesFacilitates the cheese-making process by aiding in milk coagulation and curd formation.
from the analysis of Président Soft-Ripened Brie · echoed in 2 other analysesEssential for the cheese-making process, aiding in the coagulation of milk and development of cheese texture.
from the analysis of Galbani STRING CHEESE · echoed in 1 other analysisImprove dough handling and enhance bread quality without adding calories.
from the analysis of Artesano Bakery Bread · echoed in 1 other analysisFacilitates the cheese-making process and enhances flavor development.
from the analysis of Sierra Nevada Raw Milk Cheddar · echoed in 1 other analysisMore from Scout's analyses
Enzymes are used in bread making to improve dough handling and texture. They are naturally occurring proteins that aid in the breakdown of starches and proteins. While they do not provide nutritional benefits, they enhance the quality of the bread.
from the analysis of Ace Sourdough BistroEnzymes are used in cheese making to coagulate milk, forming curds and whey. They are crucial for the cheese-making process but do not contribute significant nutritional value. The use of enzymes helps in developing the texture and flavor of the cheese.
from the analysis of Galbani STRING CHEESEEnzymes are used to improve the texture and shelf life of the product. They are natural proteins that catalyze biochemical reactions. Enzymes can enhance the digestibility of the product.
from the analysis of One Mighty Mill Stone Milled Whole Wheat BagelsAll 41 products with Enzymes
+ 17 more products in the Scout app
Where Enzymes shows up
- Cheese 16 products
- Bread 13 products
- Bagels & Muffins 3 products
- Crackers 2 products
- Salty Snacks 2 products
- Dishwasher 1 product
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