Nisin is a bacteriocin synthesized by certain species of Lactococcus lactis. Taking into account its potential as a natural preservative, its applicability in cosmetics has been verified, aiming to replace or reduce the use of synthetic preservatives currently used in these products. Nisin can be a viable alternative when associated with other preservatives, reducing the use of higher doses of chemical/synthetic preservatives that are often associated with sensitivity and allergic reactions.
Nisin has different natural variants. Nisin A was the first isolated form of nisin, but up to now a further five natural variants (nisin Z, F, Q, U and U2) have been described, which differ by up to 10 amino acids. Lactococcus lactis, produces the variants A, Z, F and Q while Streptococcus sp. produces the variants U and U2. Additionally, bioengineering strategies have been applied to develop nisin derivatives with enhanced activity against specific pathogens, including gram-negative bacteria.
Nisin is a polycyclic antibacterial peptide (lantibiotic) produced by Lactococcus lactis, widely used as a natural preservative. Its application grades vary depending on purity, formulation, and regulatory status.
Cosmetic Grade Nisin
Food Grade Nisin
Pharmaceutical Grade Nisin
Research Grade Nisin
Feed Grade Nisin
Nisin (e.g.,Cat# MFTP-114) is gaining popularity in natural or preservative-free cosmetics as an alternative to parabens and phenoxyethanol, especially due to its effectiveness against gram-positive bacteria.
| Property | Value | Function | Formulation Notes | Products Type |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Molecular Weight | ~3,354 Da (3.35 kDa) | Natural preservative; controls spoilage organisms | Used at pH 3.5–5; may need stabilizers | Skin creams/lotions |
| Peptide Length | 34 amino acids | Inhibits Propionibacterium acnes and Staphylococcus spp. | Compatible with other plant extracts | Anti-acne products |
| Structure | Polycyclic lantibiotic with dehydrated residues | Antimicrobial against S. mutans, S. aureus | Used with xylitol or herbal components | Mouthwash and oral care |
| Isoforms | Nisin A (common), Nisin Z, Q, F | Inhibits odor-causing skin bacteria | Natural substitute for triclosan or aluminum salts | Deodorants |
| Stability | Stable at low pH (3–5); degrades at neutral or alkaline pH | Preservative for sensitive skin areas | GRAS & mild; low irritation potential | Eye creams / delicate areas |
| CAS No. | 1414-45-5 | Antibacterial peptide for skincare | May be encapsulated for enhanced delivery | Cosmeceuticals |
Stable titer
Fast dissolution speed
No residue
Anti G+ bacteria
COA for nisin confirms the product's quality, purity, and safety, based on testing results. In cosmetic and personal care product formulations, This fermented product functions as a preservative with antimicrobial properties.
Creative Biogene can also provide test reports.
Activation of the strains
The primary bacteria cultivation
The secondary bacteria cultivation
Fermentation and cultivation
Filtration
Ultrafiltration concentration
Spray drying
Packaging
Storage
Producing nisin via microbial fermentation involves cultivating Lactococcus lactis—a generally recognized as safe (GRAS) bacterium that naturally secretes nisin into the culture medium. Here's a overview of fermentation at lab or industrial scale.
| Medium Component | Concentration (per L) | Fermentation Conditions | Recovery and Purification | Yield and Stability | ||
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Skim milk powder | 10–20 g | Volume | Flask (100–500 mL) or bioreactor (2–10 L) | Centrifuge culture to remove cells. | Characteristic | Typical Value |
| Yeast extract | 5–10 g | Temperature | 30°C | Adjust pH of supernatant to ~2.0–3.0 with HCl to enhance nisin solubility and cell lysis. | Yield | 1000–5000 IU/mL (varies by strain & optimization) |
| Glucose | 10–20 g | pH | Maintain at 6.5–6.8 | Stir at 4°C for 30 min and filter (0.22 µm). | MW | ~3.35 kDa |
| NaCl | 5 g | Agitation | Mild (50–150 rpm), or static | Salt precipitation: Ammonium sulfate (60–80% saturation) | pH stability | Stable at pH 3–5 |
| KH₂PO₄ | 2 g | Aeration | Anaerobic / low oxygen | Dialysis or TFF: Concentrate and remove impurities | Thermal stability | Stable at ≤121°C for short times |
| MgSO₄·7H₂O | 0.5 g | Duration | 16–24 h (up to 48 h) | Ion-exchange chromatography | ||
| CaCl₂ | 0.05 g | Final sterilization: 0.22 µm filtration | ||||
| pH | Adjust to 6.8 before sterilization | |||||
We provide in vitro human skin tissue models for cosmetic testing services. Our models are very similar to human skin in terms of morphology, of differentiation markers and of functional characteristics.
In vitro Testing
Ex Vivo Skin Model Studies
Our manufacturing process adheres to Good Manufacturing Practice (GMP) guidelines, ensuring the highest quality standards and consistency in every batch. Our state-of-the-art production facilities are certified to meet international standards, including ISO 9001, and we follow stringent procedures to prevent contamination and ensure batch-to-batch consistency.
Full Regulatory Compliance:
We comply with all relevant global regulatory requirements, including those set by the FDA, EMA, and other cosmetic regulatory bodies.
Quality Assurance:
Extensive quality control processes, including testing for purity, molecular weight distribution, and endotoxin levels, ensure that every batch of HA meets the highest standards for cosmetic use.
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