E921 - L-Cystin
Author: Victoria Aly
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minutes
Last Updated:
August 08, 2022
CHAPTERS (Table Of Contents)
Characteristic: The food supplement E 921 is an aliphatic sulfur-containing amino acid. It has the appearance of colorless crystals of various sizes or white-cream powder. The substance dissolves well in
Characteristic
Food additive E 921 is an aliphatic sulfur-containing amino acid. It has the appearance of colorless crystals of various sizes or white-cream powder. The substance dissolves well in water. In the mammalian body it is contained mainly in the composition of proteins. It is found in the urine of mammals, mainly dogs. Its presence in human urine indicates a rare genetic disease (cystinuria). Contained in hair and nails.
Use
Cystine is mainly used for medical purposes. It is a major component of a huge number of drugs needed for the comprehensive treatment of a number of diseases. Participates in the formation and maintenance of the tertiary structure of peptides and proteins.
In the food industry, the additive is used as a flour improver, and is used alone. In addition, cystine is involved in production processes to stabilize the color of food, improves their appearance.
Impact on humans
According to laboratory tests, the additive E 921 does not have an adverse effect on the human body. However, the substance is not used in EU countries.