What to Specify When Buying Bromelain
Bromelain (CAS 9001-00-7) is quoted against a specification that leads with enzymatic activity and then adds microbiological and heavy-metal limits. Because the material is a protein, the buying decision is as much about activity retention and shelf life as it is about price. This guide covers typical specifications, packaging, documentation and supplier qualification. For the underlying chemistry, see the bromelain technical article.
Typical Specifications
| Parameter | Specification |
|---|---|
| Appearance | Light yellow color |
| Odor | Light pineapple smell |
| Activity (GDU/g) | ≥2400 |
| Moisture (%) | ≤8 |
| Mesh (%) | 100% pass 80 mesh |
| Pb (mg/kg) | ≤5 |
| As (mg/kg) | ≤3 |
| Total plate count (CFU/g) | ≤10000 |
| Salmonella (25g) | Absent |
| E. coli (MPN/g) | Absent |
| Coliform group (MPN/g) | ≤30 |
| Molds & Yeasts (CFU/g) | ≤100 |
Why These Parameters Matter
- Activity (GDU/g). This is the functional value of the product. A 2400 GDU/g grade supplies a defined amount of proteolytic activity per gram, so it determines how much powder your formulation needs.
- Moisture. A limit of 8% max protects both shelf life and activity; excess moisture promotes loss of enzymatic activity and microbial growth.
- Mesh. 100% pass 80 mesh fixes the particle size, which affects blending, flow and dissolution in your process.
- Heavy metals (Pb, As). Limits of 5 and 3 mg/kg are typical for food and nutrition use.
- Microbiology. Total plate count, Salmonella, E. coli, coliforms and moulds/yeasts together decide whether the material is suitable for food, supplement or cosmetic applications.
Packaging and Storage
Bromelain is a powder and is supplied in the packaging size that fits the order, commonly fibre drums or foil-lined bags for bulk quantities. It should be stored cool, dry and tightly sealed, away from heat and humidity, and within the temperature and pH range that preserves activity. Ask the supplier for the recommended storage temperature and retest interval.
Documentation: COA and SDS
A reliable supplier provides a batch certificate of analysis (COA) that reports activity and all the specification parameters above, together with an up-to-date safety data sheet (SDS/MSDS). Because activity is measured by an assay, the COA should state the activity value and the test method, so results can be compared between lots and suppliers.
Supplier Qualification Checklist
- Confirm whether the supplier manufactures or trades the material, and the country of origin of the pineapple source.
- Check that the quoted activity and specification match the COA you will receive, and that the assay method is stated.
- Confirm consistent batch-to-batch activity, not just a single lot.
- Verify the storage and shipping conditions, so activity is not lost in transit.
- Confirm lead time, packaging and shipping terms for your production schedule.
- Confirm that COA and SDS are supplied and that the grade fits your end use (food, supplement or cosmetic).
Frequently Asked Questions
What activity of bromelain is typical?
Food and supplement grades are commonly specified at 2400 GDU/g minimum, with moisture 8% max and the microbiological limits above.
Why is the test method important on the COA?
Activity is measured by an assay; without the method, a GDU value cannot be compared reliably across lots or suppliers.
How should bromelain be shipped and stored?
Cool and dry, away from heat and humidity, with the container tightly sealed; avoid temperatures above about 60 C, which denature the enzyme.
Where can I buy bromelain?
PolyBlueChem supplies bromelain (CAS 9001-00-7) with COA and MSDS. Contact our team for specifications, packaging and a quotation.
References
- PubChem and enzyme database entries for bromelain (CAS 9001-00-7), EC 3.4.22.32.
- Supplier specification sheets for food-grade bromelain standardised at 2400 GDU/g.
- Guidance on enzyme handling, storage and activity measurement for plant proteases.
Disclaimer: This article is provided for general informational purposes only and does not constitute technical, medical, regulatory or safety advice. Always refer to the current safety data sheet and applicable regulations before handling this material.