The original application which made scientists curious in the beginning of the 20^th century, was the observation of native Central Africans wrapping meat into papaya leaves.

Other transmitted information on wound healing and skin rubbing with the white latex of leaves and stem of Carica Papaya, leads to additional findings. 

The ability to break down a wide range of protein tissues, leads to an endless series of applications from which the most important are:

Brewing industry : chill proofing of beer

Beer is stored and consumed at low temperatures at which natural present polyphenols and proteins tend to bind and form haze. The specific action of papain consists in the hydrolyzation of the proteins involved. This results in a shiny bright beer, without affecting the organoleptic properties of the brew.

Meat industry : meat tenderizing

In order to get a better consumption ratio on the meat cuts, it was important to improve the overall tenderness. Patents were taken many years ago for the pre-mortem and post-mortem treatment of slaughtered cattle. In mixtures with sodium salt and herbs the enzyme is used to marinate the cuts before cooking.  

Baking industry : gluten transformation

Papain formulas were developed as an alternative for sulfites in order to break down gluten proteins of dough more precisely in the case of crackers and waffles production.

Detergents : cleansing solutions

It is well known that papain is used since years for the cleansing of contact lenses through a well equilibrated liquid. It has also a remarkable action on eliminating heavy stains on various tissues.

Pet food industry : palatability  

Papain hydrolyses proteins which leads to a stronger taste and a better digestibility contributing to a better general health.

Food industry : hydrolyzing agent

Papain has a very wide range of hydrolysis ability. Soy, wheat, yeast and many other protein hydrolysates are used as flavor enhancers, fermentation nutrients and whipping agents.

Pharmaceuticals :

This was most certainly the fastest growing application area for the enzyme. Papain is widely recognized as an active component for treatment of ulcers, diphtheria, anthelmintic (deworming), wound healing and orthopedic dysfunctions. More recently, specific patented products were developed in relation with oncolytic treatments. Moreover, since OTC medication has developed,  a wide range of health food products based on vegetable enzymes is now available to compensate for some organic malfunctions.  

More to come :

The vegetal origin of papain, the acquired knowledge on plantation management, latex collection and subsequent extraction techniques are a guarantee for a consistent future. 

New applications are at present under investigation in several laboratories.

B.S.C. actively supports research and duly collaborates

with various industries in order to contribute to new developments.