E235: Natamycin

What is E235?

Natamycin, also called pimaricin and labelled E235, is a natural antifungal compound. It acts specifically against moulds and yeasts and has no effect on bacteria.

Origin and production

It is produced by fermentation using the soil bacterium Streptomyces natalensis, followed by extraction and purification.

Why is it used?

Natamycin protects foods from mould growth on their surfaces. In the EU it may be applied only to the outside of hard, semi-hard and semi-soft cheeses and dried, cured sausages; in other countries it is also used in sliced and grated cheese and some baked goods.

Vegan, vegetarian and halal

Natamycin is made by microbial fermentation and is suitable for vegans and vegetarians in itself, although it is typically used on cheese and meat products. It is not generally a halal or kosher concern.

Safety and regulation

Natamycin is authorised in the EU only for surface treatment of certain cheeses and sausages, with limits on the amount present on the surface. EFSA re-evaluated it and concluded its use as a food additive is not a safety concern at the permitted levels.

Common in