‘Safe’ Food Additive May Have Consequences for Gut Microbiome

The antimicrobial nisin used to keep foods safe from pathogens appears to be responsible for harming commensal gut microbes. 
‘Safe’ Food Additive May Have Consequences for Gut Microbiome
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A naturally derived antibiotic that helps preserve food by killing any threatening pathogens has kept our food safe for decades.

The World Health Organization and even watchdog groups have classified this additive, called nisin, as safe. Nisin is a lantibiotic—a peptide-derived antimicrobial agent synthesized from its natural form—first discovered in 1928 and commonly used in products such as cheese, beer, processed meats, and dipping sauces.
Amy Denney
Amy Denney
Author
Amy Denney is a health reporter for The Epoch Times. Amy has a master’s degree in public affairs reporting from the University of Illinois Springfield and has won several awards for investigative and health reporting. She covers the microbiome, new treatments, and integrative wellness.
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