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E1103 Invertase: Food Enzyme Simply Explained

E1103 (invertase) is an approved food enzyme that splits sucrose into glucose and fructose. It is widely used in confectionery and bakery production.

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Things worth knowing about "E1103"

E1103 (invertase) is an approved food enzyme that splits sucrose into glucose and fructose. It is widely used in confectionery and bakery production.

What is E1103 (Invertase)?

E1103 is the European designation for the enzyme invertase, also known as saccharase or sucrase. It is a naturally occurring enzyme found in yeasts (primarily Saccharomyces cerevisiae), certain plants, and the human digestive system. In the food industry, invertase is used as a processing aid and food additive.

Mechanism of Action

Invertase catalyses the hydrolysis of sucrose (table sugar) into its two components, glucose and fructose. The resulting mixture of glucose and fructose is known as invert sugar. Invert sugar is sweeter than sucrose, retains moisture more effectively, and is less prone to crystallisation, making it highly valuable for a wide range of food applications.

Applications in the Food Industry

Confectionery: Invertase is classically used to create chocolates with liquid centres. A solid fondant filling is liquefied by the enzyme after the chocolate coating is applied.
Bakery products: Improves shelf life and softness by enhancing moisture retention.
Jams and fillings: Prevents unwanted crystallisation of sugar.
Honey processing: Bees naturally produce invertase to convert sucrose in nectar into invert sugar.
Alcoholic beverages: Supports fermentation in brewing and winemaking.

Production and Sources

Invertase used in food technology is primarily derived from baker's yeast, Saccharomyces cerevisiae. The production process is well standardised and complies with European food legislation. Since the enzyme is derived from yeast, it is generally acceptable for vegans and vegetarians, provided no additional animal-derived processing aids are used during manufacture.

Safety and Regulatory Status

Invertase (E1103) has been assessed as safe by the European Food Safety Authority (EFSA). The enzyme is considered well tolerated, as it occurs naturally in the human body and plays a role in the digestion of sucrose. Known intolerances or allergic reactions to invertase as a food additive are extremely rare. Individuals with sucrase-isomaltase deficiency (a congenital lack of the digestive enzyme) may even benefit from products containing E1103, since the breakdown products glucose and fructose can be absorbed directly without further enzymatic processing.

Labelling Requirements

As a food enzyme, invertase (E1103) must be declared in the ingredient list of food products if it fulfils a technological function in the final product. Labelling may use either the name invertase or the E-number E1103.

References

European Food Safety Authority (EFSA): Safety evaluation of the food enzyme invertase from Saccharomyces cerevisiae. EFSA Journal, 2010.
European Parliament and Council: Regulation (EC) No 1332/2008 on food enzymes. Official Journal of the European Union, 2008.
Belitz, H.-D.; Grosch, W.; Schieberle, P.: Food Chemistry. 4th revised and extended edition, Springer, Berlin, 2009.

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