Ingredient · Updated

Protease

Positive in 5 products

Found in 5 products

What is Protease?

Protease is an enzyme that helps break down proteins into smaller peptides or amino acids. It is naturally found in the digestive systems of animals and can also be derived from plants, bacteria, or fungi.

Protease is used in a variety of industries for different purposes, such as tenderizing meat, aiding in digestion supplements, and removing stains in cleaning products. While it generally has a positive reputation for these functionalities, some individuals with specific enzyme sensitivities may experience adverse reactions.

When you see protease on a label, it often indicates the product is intended to aid in protein processing or improve texture and digestibility.

Commonly found in: dietary supplements, processed foods, meat tenderizers, laundry detergents, cleaning agents

What to watch

  • May cause irritation if inhaled as a powder in cleaning products.

Benefits

  • Facilitates digestion by breaking down proteins in supplements.
  • Helps in maintaining food texture and enhancing flavor in processed foods.
FDA

Protease is generally recognized as safe (GRAS) for its intended uses in food processing.

Research

Research supports its effectiveness in aiding digestion, but there are mixed findings on its benefits in other contexts.

Vegan

Protease can be plant or animal-derived; vegan products will typically use plant-based sources.

Sources: Overview of Food Ingredients, Additives & Colors

Scout's take

Protease is an enzyme that breaks down protein-based stains, making it effective in laundry detergents. It is derived from natural sources and is biodegradable. It poses minimal environmental risks and is safe for use in cleaning products.

The case against

There are minimal risks associated with protease in cleaning products.

from the analysis of Seventh Generation Dishwasher Detergent Gel Lemon Scent · echoed in 1 other analysis

There are no significant risks associated with its use in laundry products.

from the analysis of Molly's Suds Baby Laundry Detergent Powder Fragrance Free

The case for

Protease improves the removal of protein-based stains, enhancing cleaning performance.

from the analysis of Truly Free Home Dishwasher Detergent Plastic Bag

It effectively removes protein stains and is safe for the environment.

from the analysis of Seventh Generation Dishwasher Detergent Gel Lemon Scent

It effectively removes protein-based stains such as blood and sweat.

from the analysis of Molly's Suds Baby Laundry Detergent Powder Fragrance Free

More from Scout's analyses

Protease is an enzyme that breaks down proteins into smaller peptides or amino acids. It is commonly used in detergents to enhance cleaning efficiency. Being biodegradable, it is environmentally friendly.

from the analysis of Truly Free Home Dishwasher Detergent Plastic Bag

Protease is an enzyme that breaks down protein-based stains. It enhances the cleaning power of the detergent. It is biodegradable and environmentally friendly.

from the analysis of Seventh Generation Dishwasher Detergent Gel Lemon Scent

Part of Digestive Enzyme Blend. Digestive enzymes that aid protein and carbohydrate digestion, reducing GI discomfort common with plant protein.

from the analysis of KOS Organic Superfood Plant Protein Vanilla

All 5 products with Protease

Where Protease shows up

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