E1105 · Lysozyme
- WHO
- Safe
- FDA
- Safe
- EFSA
- Safe
- FSANZ
- Safe
- Japan
- Safe
- UK FSA
- Safe
- Health Canada
- Safe
What is E1105?
Lysozyme is an enzyme naturally found in egg whites, tears, and saliva that has antimicrobial properties, breaking down certain bacterial cell walls. It is used mainly in cheesemaking (especially hard cheeses like some Parmesan-style products) to prevent late blowing caused by Clostridium bacteria. Because it is derived from egg, lysozyme is a known allergen for people with egg allergies.
Also appears on labels as: Lysozyme, E1105, E 1105, E-1105, Egg white lysozyme, Hen egg-white lysozyme, HEWL, Muramidase, N-acetylmuramide glycanhydrolase, Lysozyme enzyme, Lysozyme powder, Lysozyme additive.
What the evidence says
- Derived from egg white; poses a risk for people with egg allergy.
- Generally recognized as safe for non-allergic individuals at the levels used in cheesemaking.
Research behind the verdict
- Lysozyme (E1105) – Safety Review — EFSA Panel on Food Additives, EFSA Journal (2014). Enzyme derived from egg white; EFSA ADI not specified; safe; allergenic potential for egg-sensitive individuals.[safe_in_moderation]
Frequently asked questions
Is E1105 safe?
Our overall verdict for E1105 (Lysozyme) is “Safe”, based on the most cautious of the major regulators’ positions — FDA: safe; WHO: safe; EFSA: safe; FSANZ: safe; Japan: safe; UK FSA: safe; Health Canada: safe.
Is E1105 vegan, halal or gluten-free?
According to our ingredient data for Lysozyme — vegan: no, vegetarian: yes, halal: yes, kosher: yes, gluten-free: yes, dairy-free: no. Manufacturing sources can vary between products; check the label if it matters to you.
What is E1105 and why is it used?
Lysozyme is an enzyme naturally found in egg whites, tears, and saliva that has antimicrobial properties, breaking down certain bacterial cell walls. It is used mainly in cheesemaking (especially hard cheeses like some Parmesan-style products) to prevent late blowing caused by Clostridium bacteria. Because it is derived from egg, lysozyme is a known allergen for people with egg allergies.
Does E1105 contain allergens?
Yes — known allergens associated with Lysozyme: egg.
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This page summarises publicly available regulatory assessments and research. It is general information, not medical advice. Sources: EFSA, FDA, WHO and the studies linked above.