E-number database
Lysozyme versus proteases (E1105, E1101)
Egg-white lysozyme is Halal as an egg enzyme. Proteases (E1101) may be microbial or animal and stay source-dependent.
- E1105 INS 1105 Lysozyme Halal Lysozyme (E1105) is an enzyme taken from hen egg white. Eggs need no slaughter, and it is neither gelatin nor a meat-derived enzyme. animalHalal
- E1101 INS 1101 Proteases Source-dependent Halal if verified E1101 is the Codex class for proteases. Plant (papain, bromelain) and microbial proteases are Halal. plantHalal microbialHalal animalHalal if verified undisclosedHalal if verified
How they differ
Lysozyme (E1105) is an enzyme from hen's egg white, used mainly to stop hard cheeses such as Grana Padano from swelling during ripening. Eggs need no slaughter, so lysozyme is Halal; it is an egg allergen, which is a separate matter.
Proteases (E1101) break down protein to tenderise meat or treat flour. Papain from papaya, bromelain from pineapple and microbial proteases are Halal. Animal proteases such as pepsin and trypsin come from pig or cattle stomachs and pancreas, and follow the animal and its slaughter. An unnamed E1101 is Halal if verified. Cheese rennet is a related but separate question with its own page.
On the label
- “Lysozyme (from egg)” is E1105 and is fine.
- “Papain” and “bromelain” are plant proteases.
- “Pepsin” or “trypsin” without a source are animal enzymes to check.
Frequently asked questions
Is lysozyme in cheese Halal?
Yes. It comes from egg white. The cheese's rennet is the question to check, not the lysozyme.
Is E1101 from pork?
Sometimes. Plant and microbial proteases are Halal; animal ones like pepsin may be porcine. Without a named source it is Halal if verified.