Protamex™

Protamex is a Bacillus protease complex developed for the hydrolysis of food proteins.

Protamex is a light brown, free-flowing, non-dusting microgranulate with an average particle size of approximately 250-450 microns. The colour may vary from batch to batch and colour intensity is not an indication of product strength. The product is readily soluble in water.

Protamex is standardized in Anson Units per gram (AU/g).

Protamex..............................................Declared activity: 1.5 AU/g

The proteolytic activity is determined according to the Analytical Method, [182K PDF] which is based on the proteolysis of denatured haemoglobin.

The product complies with the recommended purity specifications for foodgrade enzymes issued by the Joint FAO/WHO Expert Committee on Food Additives (JECFA) and the Food Chemicals Codex (FCC).

Packaging List

In contrast to many other endoproteases, Protamex will produce non-bitter protein hydrolysates even at low degrees of hydrolysis.

Application Sheet:

• Enzymatic Hydrolysis of Proteins Using Novozymes Proteases

Protamex can be inactivated in 30 minutes at 50°C (122°F) or higher when the pH is 4, and in 10 minutes at 85°C (185°F) or higher when the pH is 8. However, the inactivation is very much dependent on the substrate (substrate concentration, pH, etc.). Thus, the documentation for efficient elimination of Protamex must be based on actual analysis for the detection of residual activity. For further information, see the Method for the detection of residual protease activity in protein hydrolysate.

Optimal working conditions are at pH 5.5-7.5 and at 35-60°C (95-140°F) as determined by application trials.

In Figure 1 the activities shown are measured according to a modified Anson method in aqueous solutions without the stabilizing effect of proteinaceous matter. The stability of Protamex at a certain temperature is influenced by the type and concentration of the proteins present.

Method:    AF 4

Substrate:    Denatured hemoglobin

Enzymes are proteins and inhalation of dust or aerosols may induce sensitization and may cause allergic reactions in sensitized individuals. Some enzymes may irritate the skin, eyes and mucous membranes upon prolonged contact.

The product is designed to resist some mechanical effects. However, excessive mechanical wear and tear or crushing may create dust.

All spills, even small spills, should be gently shoveled into plastic-lined containers. Use respiratory protection. Small spills and remains of large spills should be removed by vacuuming or flushing with water (avoid splashing). Vacuum cleaners and central vacuum systems should be equipped with HEPA filters.

When using the product for the production of protein hydrolysates, consumer safety in use is documented only if the production includes processing steps in which the product is removed and/or inactivated.

A Material Safety Data Sheet is supplied with all products. See the Safety Manual for further information regarding how to handle the product safely.

Enzymes gradually lose activity over time depending on storage temperature. Cool conditions are recommended. When stored at 5°C (41°F), the product will maintain its declared activity for at least 1 year. When stored at 25°C (77°F), the product will maintain its declared activity for at least 3 months. Extended storage and/or adverse conditions, including higher temperatures or high humidity, may lead to a higher dosage requirement.