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How is
natamycin used?
Natamycin is currently approved by the FDA for use on the
surface of cuts and slices of cheese where the standards for
such cheese provides for the use of safe and suitable mold
inhibiting ingredients. Natamycin may be applied to cheese by
dipping or by spraying a liquid solution that contains 200 to
300 parts per million (ppm) of the additive.
What are
the health effects of natamycin?
Animal studies on rabbits, dogs, and cows indicate that
natamycin has no toxic effects even at high levels of
ingestion. In addition, natamycin was found to have no
reproductive or mutagenic qualities. Animal studies also show
that natamycin is fat and water insoluble, allowing an
estimated 90% to be excreted through normal gastrointestinal
functions. Natamycin is approved for use by the FDA and has
been widely used in Europe for over 35 years.
What
happens if natamycin is not used?
The use of natamycin on cheese allows manufacturers to produce
cheese that is acceptable to the aesthetic demands of
consumers (no discoloration or off flavors) by eliminating the
growth of mold and yeast that occurs during aging and storage.
Secondary benefits include reducing the risk of mycotoxin
growth and longer shelf life.
What is the
status of natamycin in the United States?
The FDA recently amended its food additive regulations to
allow for the use of a dry mix of natamycin and cellulose (to
prevent caking) on the surface of cuts and slices of cheese.
The amendment excludes the use of the dry mix on grated or
shredded cheese.
Other
Data Info for Natamycin |
