ABSTRACT
The food enzyme catalase (EC 1.11.1.6) is obtained from porcine liver by Laboratorios Arroyo S.A. It is intended to be used in a broad range of food processes. The Panel noted that the manufacturing process involved the use of a solvent not permitted in the production of food ingredients which include food enzymes. In addition, the evidence provided showed that the manufacturing process could not be guaranteed to inactivate viruses originating from the starting material, including the human zoonotic pathogen Hepatitis E virus. Consequently, the Panel concluded that the use of catalase extracted from porcine liver may present a health risk.
ABSTRACT
The food enzyme containing chymosin (EC 3.4.23.4) and pepsin (EC 3.4.23.1) is produced from the abomasum of Bos taurus purchased from different rennet manufacturers by Laboratorios Arroyo S.A. The food enzyme is intended to be used in milk processing for cheese production. As no concerns arise from the source of the food enzyme, from its manufacture, and based on the history of safe use and consumption, the Panel considered that toxicological data were not required, and no exposure assessment was necessary. On the basis of literature data, the Panel considered that, under the intended conditions of use, the risk of allergic sensitisation and elicitation reactions by dietary exposure could not be excluded, but the likelihood for this to occur was considered to be low. Based on the data provided, the Panel concluded that this food enzyme does not give rise to safety concerns under the intended conditions of use.
