ε-Polylysine hydrochloride is a natural preservative extracted from a controlled fermentation broth of Streptomyces albulus. It consists of 25–35 L-lysine residues, which can interact with certain components of the yeast cell wall or membrane, disrupting the normal physiological functions of yeast and thereby inhibiting its growth.
The inhibitory effect of ε-polylysine hydrochloride on yeast is particularly pronounced. At appropriate concentrations, it can effectively suppress the growth and reproduction of yeast and even completely kill it. This antimicrobial property has been demonstrated in various applications, including food, cosmetics, and personal care products.
Due to its broad-spectrum antimicrobial activity and safety for human use, ε-polylysine hydrochloride is widely utilized in fields such as food, cosmetics, and household products. It is used in cakes, pastries, fast foods, butter, salad dressings, beverages, meat products, and canned goods to extend shelf life and prevent spoilage. ε-Polylysine hydrochloride is incorporated into products like wet wipes and shampoos to inhibit microbial growth and ensure product safety and stability.
Although ε-polylysine hydrochloride is highly effective in inhibiting yeast growth, certain factors should be considered when using it:
·Usage Concentration:
The appropriate concentration should be determined based on the specific product requirements and the antimicrobial effect of ε-polylysine hydrochloride. Insufficient concentrations may fail to achieve the desired antimicrobial effect, while excessive concentrations could increase costs or negatively impact the product.
·Usage Conditions:
ε-Polylysine hydrochloride maintains strong antimicrobial activity under high-temperature, acidic, and alkaline conditions. However, extreme conditions (e.g., very high or very low pH) may reduce its activity. Therefore, the appropriate conditions should be determined based on the specific product requirements.
·Synergy with Other Additives:
ε-Polylysine hydrochloride can be used in combination with other additives, such as acetic acid, ethanol, and glycine, to enhance its antimicrobial effect. However, the interactions between different additives should be carefully considered to avoid adverse reactions or reduced antimicrobial efficacy.
ε-Polylysine hydrochloride is highly effective in inhibiting yeast growth and has a wide range of applications in food, cosmetics, and personal care products. When using this preservative, selecting the appropriate concentration and usage conditions, as well as combining it effectively with other additives, is crucial to ensure product safety and stability.