E235 · Natamycin
- WHO
- Safe
- FDA
- Better avoided
- EFSA
- Safe
- FSANZ
- Safe
- Japan
- Safe
- UK FSA
- Safe
- Health Canada
- Safe
What is E235?
Natamycin (also called pimaricin) is a natural antifungal compound produced by fermenting the bacterium Streptomyces natalensis. It's used mainly as a surface treatment on hard cheeses and dry sausages to prevent mold growth, and it doesn't alter taste, texture, or appearance. It works by binding to sterols in fungal cell membranes, which stops fungal growth without significant antibacterial activity. It's approved as safe by the FDA and EFSA within regulated limits, typically applied only to the outer rind or casing rather than mixed through the whole food.
Also appears on labels as: Natamycin, E235, E 235, E-235, INS 235, Pimaricin, Antibiotic food preservative Natamycin, Polyene macrolide antifungal, Food additive E235, Natural antifungal preservative, Surface preservative for cheese and sausages, Pimaricin (Natamycin).
What the evidence says
- Rare allergic reactions have been reported, since natamycin is derived from bacterial fermentation.
- EFSA has set an acceptable daily intake; typical surface-treatment use keeps consumer exposure well within that limit.
Research behind the verdict
- Natamycin (E235) – Antifungal Antibiotic — EFSA Panel on Food Additives, EFSA Journal (2009). ADI set at 0.3 mg/kg; residues restricted to surface of cheese and sausages; no systemic toxicity observed.[safe_in_moderation]
Frequently asked questions
Is E235 safe?
Our overall verdict for E235 (Natamycin) is “Better avoided”, based on the most cautious of the major regulators’ positions — FDA: better avoided; WHO: safe; EFSA: safe; FSANZ: safe; Japan: safe; UK FSA: safe; Health Canada: safe.
Is E235 vegan, halal or gluten-free?
According to our ingredient data for Natamycin — vegan: yes, vegetarian: yes, halal: yes, kosher: yes, gluten-free: yes, dairy-free: yes. Manufacturing sources can vary between products; check the label if it matters to you.
What is E235 and why is it used?
Natamycin (also called pimaricin) is a natural antifungal compound produced by fermenting the bacterium Streptomyces natalensis. It's used mainly as a surface treatment on hard cheeses and dry sausages to prevent mold growth, and it doesn't alter taste, texture, or appearance. It works by binding to sterols in fungal cell membranes, which stops fungal growth without significant antibacterial activity. It's approved as safe by the FDA and EFSA within regulated limits, typically applied only to the outer rind or casing rather than mixed through the whole food.
Does E235 contain allergens?
No known allergens are recorded for Natamycin.
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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.