E234 Nisin

E234PreservativesOrigin: Fermented

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Every diet

VeganDepends

Often made in a milk-based growth medium. Only a vegan label confirms it.

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Gluten-freeYes

HalalYes

KosherYes

KetoYes

Low-FODMAPYes

The short answer

Nisin (E234) is a natural antibacterial made by cheese bacteria. It stops spoilage and Listeria in processed cheese and canned foods, and it's broken down in the gut like any protein.

86/100

Generally safe

Fine for most people at normal amounts.

E-numberE234

Comes fromFermented

What it doesPreservatives

Glycemic index—

Daily limit1 mg/kg

Also calledNisin, Nisin preparation

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Rules by country

🇺🇸 US FDAApproved

🇪🇺 European UnionApproved with limits

🇨🇦 Health CanadaApproved with limits

CaliforniaNo extra rules

Generally recognized as safe in the US. The EU and Canada allow it in listed foods such as processed cheese, puddings and some canned foods. EFSA's 2017 review set a daily limit of 1 mg per kg of body weight.

How much is too much? (Acceptable Daily Intake)

Body weight: 70 kg

70 mgper day is the safe upper limit

Based on 1 mg per kg of body weight (EFSA / JECFA). A 20 kg (44 lb) child: 20 mg a day.

What is it?

Nisin is a tiny protein that kills many bacteria, including the spores that spoil heat-treated foods. It doesn't work on mold or yeast, so it's often paired with sorbates.

Where it comes from: A small protein made by Lactococcus lactis, the same kind of bacteria used to make cheese. The growth medium is often milk-based.

Why it’s in food

Stops spore-forming bacteria in processed cheese
Helps control Listeria in ready-to-eat foods
Lets canned foods use milder heat
Extends the shelf life of puddings and liquid egg

Often found in

Processed cheese and cheese spreadsPuddings and custardsLiquid eggCanned soups and vegetablesRicotta and cream cheeseCooked meats

Also listed as: Nisin, Nisin preparation, Nisaplin

Health & gut impact

Safety reviewConcern

EFSA found no safety concern at current uses and raised its daily limit in 2017.

EFSA Panel on Food Additives (2017)

Antibiotic resistanceConcern

Nisin isn't used as a medicine, and decades of food use haven't been linked to resistance to medical antibiotics.

JECFA evaluation of nisin (WHO)

What can I use instead?

Natamycin

Ratio: To label

Best for: Mold on cheese surfaces

Cultured dextrose

Ratio: To label

Best for: Clean-label dairy and dips

Is it vegan?Nisin vs Natamycin

More preservatives:

Calcium disodium EDTA (EDTA) E385Calcium disodium EDTA (E385) grabs stray metals so dressings, sodas and canned beans keep their color and flavor. Very little is absorbed, and it's safe in the small amounts allowed.Use in moderation Calcium Propionate E282Calcium propionate (E282) is the mold inhibitor in most packaged bread. It's considered safe, vegan and gluten-free, though a few small studies have raised questions about behavior in children and blood sugar.Use in moderation Celery powderCelery powder is how "uncured" bacon and hot dogs are cured. It's a natural source of nitrite, the same chemical as sodium nitrite, so "no nitrites added" meats aren't nitrite-free.Use in moderation Lysozyme E1105Lysozyme (E1105) is an egg-white enzyme that stops gas-forming bacteria from cracking aged cheese. It's safe for most people, but it's not vegan and can be a problem for anyone allergic to egg.Use in moderation

Common questions

Is nisin an antibiotic?

It's an antibacterial protein, but it isn't used as a medicine. Your gut breaks it down like other proteins.

Is Nisin safe?

Generally safe (86/100). Generally recognized as safe in the US. The EU and Canada allow it in listed foods such as processed cheese, puddings and some canned foods. EFSA's 2017 review set a daily limit of 1 mg per kg of body weight.

Is Nisin vegan?

Depends. Often made in a milk-based growth medium. Only a vegan label confirms it.

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Scientific sources & regulatory citations

21 CFR 184.1538 (US FDA)
EFSA OpenFoodTox: E234
EFSA Panel on Food Additives (2017)
JECFA evaluation of nisin (WHO)

INS 234 · CAS 1414-45-5