Gelatin
processing
Executive Summary
The NOSB was petitioned to consider gelatin derived from fish used to clarify
tea. Gelatin can be made from many different sources of collagen. Cattle bones,
hides, pigskins, and fish are the principle commercial sources. As such, it may
come from either agricultural or non-agricultural sources. Gelatin is also used
as a fining agent in wine, and as a stabilizer, thickener, and texturizer for a
range of products. Gelatin can be used as either a processing aid or an
ingredient. In some cases, gelatin will comprise over 5% of a food. Gelatin may
be prepared in a way that is more like cooking and could be considered
nonsynthetic. However, gelatin may also be processed in ways that would render
it synthetic. Some forms are chemically modified (e.g., cross-linked) or
possibly involve the use of substances derived from genetically modified
organisms. These forms and processes are considered excluded from this review.
Irradiated gelatin is also not covered. Gelatin is often combined with other
ingredients. Each of these other ingredients would either need to appear on the
National List or be from an organic source to be used in a product labeled as
‘organic.’ Unprocessed fish bladders, known as isinglass, are a
possible substitute for more processed gelatin and may want to be considered
for a separate listing. Isinglass is covered under the current TAP review,
although this is technically a different substance from gelatin. Two Reviewers
recommended that gelatin be added to the National List. One recommended thatit be
prohibited for use in organic processing and handling.
Identification
Chemical Name: gelatin Other Names: bovine gelatin (type B gelatin), fish
gelatin, porcine gelatin (type A gelatin), food-grade gelatin, edible gelatin,
kosher fish gelatin, dried fish gelatin, bloom fish gelatin, HMW fish gelatin,
isinglass(?), gelatine. Trade Names (selected list): Gelfoam, Puragel, Norland
Fish Gelatin, Gel-caps, Emagel, Gelafusal, Gelatine, Gelita Sol E
Gelita-Collagel, Gelita-Sol P, Gelita-Tec,Gelodan G, Gelofusine, Gelrite,
Glutins (gelatins), Grindsted G GX 45L404, IK, IK (gelatin), K 16096, K 7598,
Knox
Unflavored Gelatin, KV 3000, KV 3000 (gelatin), KV 3029, M 394, M 396, M 400
(gelatin), MGP 9066 Neosoft GE 82, Nikkol CCP 4, Nitta 750, Nittait GF 600A,
Calfskin Gelatin, Crodyne BY-19, Flavorset® GP-2, Flavorset® GP-3,
Gummi Gelatin P-5, Gummi Gelatin P-7, Gummi Gelatin P-8, Margarine Gelatin,
Quickset® D-4, Spa Gelatin, Tenderset® M-7, Tenderset® M-8,
Tenderset® M-9; Biofine P-19® (isinglass), Hausengranulat Drifine®
(isinglass). CAS Number: 9000-70-8 Other Codes: EINECS 2325546
Processing
Summary of TAP Reviewer Analysis1
Agricultural / Non-agricultural From fish:Non-agricultural (3-0) Isinglass
Non-agricultural (3-0) From cattle bones:Agricultural (2-1) From tanned cattle
hides: Non-agricultural (3-0)From pigskins: Agricultural (2-1) Synthetic /
Non-Synthetic: From fish treatd with food acids: Non-synthetic (2-1) Isinglass:
(Not considered gelatin) Non-synthetic (2-1) From cattle bones:Non-synthetic
(2-1) From tanned cattle hides: Synthetic (3-0) From pigskins: Non-synthetic
(2-1)
95% organic
Allowed or Prohibited: Allowed (2) Prohibited (1)
Suggested
Annotation: (1) From animal bones and animal skins prepared with agricultural
products and items on the National List (7 CFR 205.605) and not chemically
modified. (2) Allowed with the exception of hard gelatin capsule applications.
No sulfur dioxide or hydrogen peroxide allowed in the process. (3) Prohibited
without annotation.
made with organic
Allowed or Prohibited: Allowed (2) Prohibited (1)
Suggested
Annotation: (1) From animal bones and animal skins prepared with agricultural
products and items on the National List (7 CFR 205.605) and not chemically
modified. (2) Allowed with the exception of hard gelatin capsule applications.
No sulfur dioxide or hydrogen peroxide allowed in the process
(3) Prohibited without annotation.
Characterization
Composition: Gelatin is a heterogeneous mixture of water-soluble proteins of
high molecular weight (Budavari, 1996). On a dry weight basis, gelatin consists
of 98 to 99% protein. The molecular weight of these large protein structures
typically ranges between 20,000 and 250,000 (Kennan, 1994), with some
aggregates weighing in the millions (Poppe, 1997). Coils of amino acids are
joined together by peptide bonds. The predominant aminoacid sequence is
Gly-Pro-Hyp (Poppe, 1997). As a result, gelatin contains relatively high levels
of these amino acids: glycine (Gly) 26-34%; proline (Pro) 10-18%; and hydroxy
proline (Hyp) 7-15% (Veis, 1964; Poppe, 1997). Other significant amino acids
include: alanine (Ala)
8-11%; arginine (Arg) 8-9%; aspartic acid (Asp) 6-7%; and glutamic acid (Glu)
10-12%. (Hudson, 1994; Poppe, 1997). Gelatin is not a
nutritionally complete protein. It contains no tryptophan and is deficient in
isoleucine, threonine, and methionine (Potter and Hotchkiss, 1998). The other
sulfur-containing amino acids—cysteine and cystine—are deficient or
absent as well. Percent of water will vary between 6 to 9% (Alais, 1991; US
FDA, 1997a). Ash content is 0.1 to 3.25% (Veis, 1964). Properties: Gelatin is
nearly tasteless and odorless (Food Chemicals Codex, 1996). Physical and
chemical properties noted: colorless or slightly yellow, transparent, brittle,
odorless, tasteless sheets, flakes, or powder; soluble in hot water, glycerol,
and acetic acid; and insoluble in organic solvents (Budavari, 1996). Gelatin
swells and absorbs 5-10 times its weight of water to form a gel in aqueous
solutions between 30-35°C. Gelatin extracted from fish will have a gel point
in the range of 5-10°C. (Food Chemicals Codex, 1996).
These gels have increasing viscosity under stress (thixotrophic) and are
thermally reversible. Gelatin has a unique protein structure that provides for
a wide range of functional properties (Hudson,
1994). These proteins form a compound (triple) helix in aqueous solution(Veis, 1965).
1
This Technical Advisory Panel (TAP) review is based on the information
available as of the date of this review. This review addresses the requirements
of the Organic Foods Production Act to the best of the investigator’s
ability, and has been reviewed by experts on the TAP. The substance is
evaluated against the criteria found in section 2119(m) of the OFPA [7 USC
6517(m)]. The information and advice presented to the NOSB is based on the
technical evaluation against that criteria, and does
not incorporate commercial availability, socio-economic impact or other factors
that the NOSB and the USDA may want to consider in making decisions. Page 2 of
2
Gelatin
Processing
Gelatin is amphoteric (Budavari, 1996), meaning that it is neither acidic nor
alkali, but possesses both properties depending on the nature of the solution.
The pH at which gelatin’s charge in solution is neutral is known as the
isoelectric point. The isoelectric point of gelatin ranges between 4.8 and 9.4,
with acid processed gelatins having higher isoelectric points than alkali
processed gelatins (Poppe, 1997). Gelatin forms a gel at a minimum
concentration of 0.5% through the pH range of 4 through 8. The pH in water
solutions for type A is between 4.5 and 6, and the pH range for type B is from
5 to 7 (see below for types) (US FDA, 1997a). Bloom is an ascending index used
to measure gel strength (Bloom, 1925). Commercial gelatin will vary from 90 to
300 grams Bloom (Igoe, 1983). In addition to origin, fishgelatin is
distinguished from beef or pork gelatin by its low melting point, low gelation
temperature, and high solution viscosity. These physical properties are not as
strongly correlated to Bloom strength (Leuenberger, 1991). One study found fish
gelatin to have similar physical and chemical properties compared to porcine
gelatin and to be rated superior in a blind sensory test (Choi and Regenstein,
2000). How Made: All manufacturing operations extract and hydrolyze collagen
found in fish skins, bovine bone, and porcine skin with subsequent
purification, concentration, and drying operations. These can be either simple
or complicated operations. Gelatin is formed during the simple cooking of meat,
particularly in low-quality cuts that are high in collagen (Foegeding, et al.,
1996). Collagen is an important product of rendering cattle and hog slaughter
by-products (Boehme, 1982). Fish swim bladders are often simply dried to make
isinglass (Ockerman, 1991; Leather et al., 1994; Hickman et al., 2000). Various
applications will require certain specific sources, or processing steps, to
achieve certain functionalities or grades. Some may be based on religious
preference—e.g., porcine gelatin is forbidden for Halal or Kosher. Others
depend on additional processing steps that provide an appropriate type,
strength, viscosity, and water-absorption capacity. Comestible grades are
selected based on (neutral) flavor and texture (Choi and Regenstein, 2000).
Genetically engineered sources of collagen and gelatin are also being
researched. At the present time,most of the research
appears to involve transgenic animals that produce human collagen for grafting
(Ferguson,
2001; Fibrogen, 2001). One patented source of recombinant human collagen is
expressed in milk of non-human animals (Berg, 1997). These are intended for
therapeutic and medical use to replace damaged human tissue. Another patent
claims that collagen-like polypeptides are produced by yeast as the host
organism (Weber and Herz, 1998). This would be suitable for conversion to
gelatin, although it might also be considered a gelatin substitute. The
intended application is for photography. At present, it is unclear whether any
GMO sources of collagen are commercially available. Fish Gelatin Process
Gelatin is extracted from fish skins (Kosher) with heat and water and acetic
acid (the acid found in vinegar) to control pH. The soluble extract is
filtered, concentrated by evaporation, dried, and milled into standard particle
size (40 mesh), then blended and packaged (Kenney and
Ross, no date). Various other food acids can be used, such as citric or lactic
(GómezGuillén, M.C. and P. Montero. 2001). The source of the
fish, including species and whether farmed or wild-caught, was not specified.
Various species may be used, and a number of these species may be farmed.
Alkali hydrolysis may speed the process and increase Bloom strength, but alkali
does not appear to be used in the manufacture of most fish-based fining
gelatins. Sodium hydroxide appears to be the alkali of choice used by the
exceptional alkali processors. Isinglass When fish bladders
aredried, this forms a substance known as ‘isinglass.’ The
bladders can come from either wild-caught or farmed fish. Sturgeon (Ockerman,
1991), channel catfish (Eun, Chung, and Hearnsberger, 1994), and tilapia,
megrim, cod, and tuna (Gilsenan and Ross-Murphy, 2000) have all been used at
various times. Commentators differ as to whether isinglass is a gelatin or a
raw collagen. One food science reference defines isinglass as “[a]
refined gelatin obtained from the collagen of the outer layer of the dried swim
bladder of a fish (e.g., sturgeon) and used as an edible jelly, to preserve
eggs, and for clarifying wine and beer” (Ockerman, 1991, emphasis added;
see also Light, 1989). Other sources consider it to be raw collagen, but
indicate that the collagen can be turned into gelatin simply by heating,
without a synthetic chemical reaction (Hickman, et al., 2000). Adding fruit
juice and various spices, heating, cooling, and filtering can also reduce
isinglass to a stable, consistent gelatin (Cooper, 1845). Isinglass is unique
among collagens in that it possesses many of the chemical and functional properties
of gelatin without being denatured by processing with synthetics. Many common
tests are unable to distinguish whether isinglass is a collagen or a gelatin.
One study prepared a denatured gelatin from isinglass by treatment in a
waterbath at 60°C. (140°F.) (Leather,
et al., 1994). (Note: In 1995, the NOSB received a
petition for isinglass that it did not refer to the TAP for review.)
Page 3 of 3
Gelatin
Processing
Acid Pretreatment Process or Porcine Gelatin (Type A
Gelatin) Acid pretreatment is invariably used for porcine gelatin. Pigskins are
first dehaired, usually by a combination of steam, rubber paddles, and flame
(Farmer, et al., 1982). The pigskins may then be degreased by various methods,
such as centrifuged in a rotating drum heated with steam to temperatures
between 60° and 65° C. or approximately 150°-160°F. (Hinterwaldner, 1977a). Petroleum-based solvents such as
tetrachloroethylene (TCE) may also be used to degrease animals, but this is
less common than steam and mechanical methods because of safety and
environmental issues (Norris, 1982). Hydrogen peroxide may be used to remove
grease passed through a chopper or macerator to cut the skin into uniform sizes
(Keenan, 1994). The skins are then soaked at a pH of 1 to 4 with a food-grade
mineral acid such as hydrochloric (HCl), phosphoric (H3PO4), or sulfuric
(H2SO4) acid for 8 to 30 hours (Hinterwaldner, 1977b; Keenan, 1994; Cole, 2000;
Ledward, 2000). This treatment causes the material to swell to two to three
times its pre-treatment volume (Ledward, 2000). The acid-treated pigskins are
then washed with water to remove impurities. The skins are then extracted with
hot water and the extract is filtered through an anion-cation exchange column
to reduce ash or mineral levels. The gelatin extract is vacuum concentrated or
ultra filtered to a concentration of between 15 and 35%, filtered, pH adjusted
to between 3.5 and 6, evaporated to 50% solids, sterilized at temperatures
between248-303°F. for up to 13 seconds, chilled and extruded into noodles
approximately 1/8 inch diameter, dried through a multi zone oven at 158°F.,
and milled to the specified particle size and packaged (Hinterwaldner, 1977a).
Acid pretreatment is sometimes used for beef ossein, but this is relatively
uncommon (Rose, 1990). Alkali Process or Bovine Gelatin (Type B Gelatin) Bovine
gelatin is obtained from collagen from cattle, primarily hides and bones. In
the U.S., 98% of the bone
used for gelatin extraction is obtained from USDA inspected plants and 2% is
obtained from Argentina
(US FDA, 1997a). If chromium-tanned hides are used, steps are taken to remove
the chromium from the hides (Rose, 1990). Because of the mineral content of
bones, a great deal more processing time is needed (Stainsby, 1987). The bone
is crushed, cooked at 180-250°F., centrifuged, and dried at 160-270°F.
This extracted bone is degreased prior to gelatin manufacture. The degreased
bone meal is de-mineralized with 4-6% HCl for a period of 5 to 7 days. Shorter
times can be achieved by continuous processes (Garono, et al., 1956). The
de-mineralized bone is now called ossein. The ossein is washed with multiple
rinses of water to remove impurities. The next step is called the liming
process where ossein is treated with a 1 to 4% lime
(calcium hydroxide) slurry to adjust the pH to 12 to 12.7 for periods from 35
to 70 days, with agitation and weekly lime changes to remove all non-collagen
components. The ossein is then washed at the rate of 50 to 100 lb. of water per
pound of gelatin.During the wash process, a mineral
acid is added (HCl or H2SO4) to neutralize excess lime and to adjust the pH to
3. The final pH after all wash operations is between 5 and 7. Gelatin is then
extracted from the ossein by de-mineralized hot water extraction. To further
remove impurities, the liquid gelatin solution may be filtered through a
cellulose/diatomaceous earth plate and frame filter and de-ionized using an
anionic-cationic resin bed. The gelatin solution is evaporated to a
concentration between 15 and 45%. The concentrated gelatin is filtered, pH
adjusted to between 5 and 7, and sterilized between 280-290°F. for 8 to 12 seconds, cooled, and hot air dried for periods
of 1 to 3 hours. It is then milled to 80 to 30 mesh size and packaged (US FDA,
1997a). The alkaline process may take up to 20 weeks (Poppe, 1997). Enzymatic
Process Collagen resists proteinase attack, but a number of collagenase enzymes
have been isolated (Cole, 2000). Several processes have been developed to
produce gelatin by the use of naturally occurring enzymes (e.g., Vernon, Glass, and
Weaver, 1939). Proteolytic enzymes such as pepsin and pronase are often used in
conjunction with chemical treatment methods to increase the efficiency and
reduce processing time for Type A gelatin
(Hinterwaldner, 1977b). An early approach to process collagen into gelatin
without mineral acids or bases involved the sterilization of pigskins with
hydrogen peroxide, followed by the introduction of a yeast culture, such as
baker’s yeast or brewer’s yeast, along with a sugar as an energy source forthe yeast (Keil, 1956). The yeast
produced enzymes that digested the collagen, and converted that substrate to
gelatin after being denatured. Since then, a more refined approach has been
patented that introduces proteolytic enzymes produced by non-pathogenic
bacteria, rather than the fermentation organisms (Petersen and Yates, 1977).
Both sodium hydroxide and a bactericide were also used in the example, but was not claimed as essential to the process. Enzymatic
methods to produce gelatin continue to evolve and have succeeded in
demineralizing collagen from ossein with improved predictability of quality and
yield (Rowlands and Burrows, 1998). Earlier TAP reviews on enzymes have noted
the development of enzymes from genetically modified organisms. Capsules ‘Gelatin’ capsules are made from gelatin and
various other ingredients. These are manufactured by a number of
different methods (see various patents, and Jones, 1987). The earliest
reference to gelatin capsules makes no specific mention of any ingredients
other than the medicines encapsulated (Cauhaupe, 1874). However, current
gelatin capsule formulations contain a wide variety of other ingredients. Each
ingredient needs to be addressed on its own merits. One of the earliest
improvements was the addition of sodium carbonate to correct for stomach
acidity (Heineman, 1891). At about the same time, it was discovered that
formaldehyde (formic aldehyde) and other aldehydes can be used to harden
gelatin capsules and enable them to pass from the stomach to the intestine
(Weyland, 1899). A number of otheringredients have been
Page 4 of 4
Gelatin
Processing
introduced to harden both soft- and hard-capsules since that invention, but the
most extensively studied has been formaldehyde (Jones, 1987). Improved methods
to detect formaldehyde cross-linking are of interest because trace levels of
formaldehyde may have an adverse effect on the capsule contents (Gold, et al.,
2001a, and Gold, et al., 2001b). Specific Uses: Gelatin has a considerable
number of applications and uses (Hudson, 1994; Keenan, 1994; Cole, 2000; Poppe,
1997; Ledward, 2000). The petitioned use is in foods as a beverage clarifier
(Gass, 2001). Gelatin is also used as a fining agent for white wine (Vine,
1999), as a beer clarifier (Brewers Resource, 2001), and to clarify fruit and
vegetable juice, especially for clarified apple juice (Tressler and Joslyn,
1954; Peterson and Johnson, 1978) and pear juice (Lee and Lee, 1999). Gelatin
is used in desserts at 8 to 10% of the dry weight (e.g., Jell-O™), in
yogurt at 0.3 to 0.5% as a thickener, in ham coatings at 2 to 3%, and in
confectionery and capsules (vitamin supplements) at 1.5 to 2.5 % (Igoe, 1983).
Further uses include fruit toppings for pastry, instant gravy, instant sauces
and soups, edible films for confectionery products (McCormick, 1987), as a
stabilizer in ice cream, cream cheese, and cottage cheese as well as in food
foams and fruit salads (McWilliams, 2001). Overall functional uses include as a
stabilizer, thickener, and texturizer. Gelatin and animal glue are
closelyrelated (Torr, 1954; Keenan, 1994). Gelatin-based glues are also used as
adhesives to put those little ‘organic’ stickers on fruits and vegetables.
Gelatin is also used in prepared meat products such as canned ham, luncheon
meats, turkey, and chicken rolls where it helps to maintain consistency and
moisture (Rose, 1990). Textile applications include use as a sizing, coating,
dressing, or finishing agent for cotton, leather, silk, and wool (Naghski,
1982). Gelatin capsules (gel-caps) are commonly used to encapsulate various
foods, nutritional supplements, and medicines (Ash and Ash, 1995). Various
forms of gelatin are common excipients in pharmaceutical formulations,
including vaccines, and are used as a binder for tablets (Zanowiak, 1996).
Action: For juice applications, gelatin in combination with bentonite causes a
dense precipitate or coagulum with soluble proteins in the juice, which facilitates
the clarification process by allowing the protein haze to be filtered out from
the juice. The petition states, “added directly
to beverage in conjunction with other clarifiers to cause(s) binding of haze
causing components which can then be filtered out along with the gelatin”
(Gass, 2001). Gelatin in aqueous food systems readily forms a hydrogen bond
with water because of many exposed polar regions. As
gelatin binds with water, it swells and absorbs water. It can then be dispersed
in hot water and with other ingredients. The formation of a gelatin gel is
endothermic and occurs gradually as the energy of the system dissipates. A
surface film forms as someof the gelatin molecules cross link in a compact
configuration. When the interior begins to gel, the molecules of gelatin are in
random configuration. As gelation continues, a more organized arrangement
evolves after storage. The gelatin gel is a dynamic colloidal dispersion and is
subject to change (thixotrophy) and decreased tenderness during storage. As the
concentration of gelatin increases, the rate of gelation also increases,
thereby increasing the firmness and decreasing tenderness. If the concentration
is too high, the texture becomes too firm and rubbery. An acceptable gel for
most food systems can be formed with gelatin concentrations of between 1.5 and
4% (McWilliams, 2001). When gelatin is used as a clarification agent for white
wine, it is able to bind negatively charged tannins by gelatin’s net
positive charge in acidic solution. The two bind electrostatically and form an
insoluble complex that can be filtered or gravity settled from the wine.
Combinations: The literature is filled with references to combinations for
gelatin. These are not necessarily used as ingredients in food, and may involve
use for photography, textiles, or other non-food applications. All forms of
gelatin may be subjected to further chemical treatment to change the
functional, textural, or keeping qualities. The review below will focus on food
uses, but will also make references to pharmaceutical applications given the
need to consider the use of gelatin as an excipient / carrier for animal drugs,
and the packaging of organic nutraceuticals and functional foods.Some non-food
applications pose contamination concerns and are noted as control points for
safe food-grade gelatin manufacture (Cole, 2000). Preservatives Dry gelatin,
kept dry, can keep for years (Hinterwaldner, 1977b). However, under certain
conditions, bacteria readily consume gelatin because it is pure protein.
Hydrogen peroxide is also used (Cole, 2000; Ledward, 2000). Pentachlorophenol
may be used for non-edible industrial-grade gelatin, but is prohibited for
food-grade gelatin (Food Chemicals Codex, 1996). Isinglass may be packaged with
tartaric acid to balance the pH and produce a positive charge; metabisulfite
may be also used as a stabilizer (Quest, 2001). Gelatin may also be irradiated
(9 CFR 424.21; see 21 CFR 179 for general provisions).
Page 5 of 5
Gelatin
Processing
Fining Agents The petition states, “…added directly to beverage in
conjunction with other clarifiers” (Gass, 2001). Gelatin is combined with
bentonite for juice clarification (Peterson and Johnson, 1978). Tannin is often
added to apple juice and other juices with low tannin content (Tressler and
Joslyn, 1954). Sugar as sucrose is frequently added to increase the set time of
the gel. Comestible Gelatin Gelatin may also be irradiated. Agar is used with
gelatin to create a phase-separated system that maintains the texture of meat
and fish despite changes in room temperature (Stainsby, 1987). Sugar-gelatin
mixtures can be directly added to hot aqueous liquids without preliminary
hydration in cold water. CapsulesVarious plasticizing and hardening agents are
added to the gelatin used to make capsules or microcapsules. Glycerol
(glycerin) is a plasticizer most widely used to make soft gel capsules. Other
plasticizers used with or instead of glycerol include various alcohols,
propylene glycol, sucrose, and acacia (Ledward, 2000). Sorbitol is the most
widely used alcohol, but other alcohols have been explored, including various
polyethylene glycols (PEGs) (Hutchinson, et al., 1998), mannitol, ethylene
glycol (Sano et al., 2001), and tetrafurfuryl alcohol (Brox and Gabler, 1990).
Various starches can be used as disintegrants and to improve adhesion of a
secondary coating (Hutchinson, et al., 1998). Hard capsules use aldehydes to
cross-link and stiffen the structure of gelatin. Formaldehyde and glutaraldehyde
are used as hardening agents for microencapsulation of flavors (Cole, 2000).
Hard capsules rarely use a plasticizer (Ledward, 2000). The introduction of
formaldehyde to the gelatin may involve an emulsification of lanolin and
mineral (petroleum) oil (Palermo and McMillion, 1951). Capsules can also be
coated with various substances to give a smooth finish, to increase dispersion
and dissolution, for flavoring, and for identification. Various surfactants,
such as various polysorbates, can be used to increase dispersion. Natural and
artificial flavors and sweeteners can also be incorporated into the shells or
coatings of gelatin capsules. Sucrose (sugar) has been the most widely used,
but coatings may include acesulfame K, aspartame, and saccharin (Hutchinson,
etal., 1998).
Status
Historic Use: The practice of consuming collagen films as edible gut parts of
slaughtered animals, filled with their original contents or comminuted meat,
dates to the ancient Babylonians and Homer’s Odyssey in 800 B.C. (Hood,
1987). Gelatin, derived from collagen, was among the first commercial raw
materials suitable as a contact preservative for meat and meat products.
Several U.S. patents
covering topical applications of gelatin were granted in the mid nineteenth and
early twentieth centuries (e.g. Henley, 1872).
Gelatin was also reported to be used in the earliest individual sausage casings
in 1864 as a coating applied by dip treatment of textile or cotton bags or
tubes (Hood, 1987). The technology for gelatin production intensified during
the period of 1940 through the 1950’s when commercial processes were
developed and refined (Pearson and Bailey, 1985). Gelatin was widely used in
Europe to clarify juice, but because of difficulties in controlling use and the
large amounts of sediments formed, use in the U.S. was limited (Tressler and
Joslyn, 1954). Gelatin remains unpopular in fruit juice clarification because
it creates a haze (Shaw, 1994). Fish gelatin has been used to clarify coffee
for over a century (Tucker, 1871). The literature contains few references to
methods to clarify tea, including the use of gelatin. The use of gelatin to
stabilize green tea extract and product was patented (Ekanayake, Kirksey, and
Pultinas, 1995). Gelatin capsules have been used to encapsulate nutritional
supplements as well as medicationssince at least the second half of the 19th
century (Cauhape, 1874). OFPA, USDA Final Rule: Not mentioned in the final
rule. Regulatory: Meets USP and European Pharmacopoeia standards. FDA approved
as GRAS. EPA/NIEHS/Other Sources EPA – Inert ingredients List 4A. While
gelatin and the collagen from which it is derived are both not considered
hazardous, a number of the chemical agents used to treat the collagen to form
gelatin are considered hazardous (US EPA, 1998b). Hydrochloric acid, sulfuric
acid, and sodium hydroxide are all reportable under the Emergency Planning and
Community Right-to-know Act (EPCRA) (EPA, 1998a). NIEHS – (National
Toxicology Program Database) no monograph on gelatin appeared on the day of the
search (NTP, 2001). There were several cross-references about compounds
combined with gelatin.
Page 6 of 6
Hazardous components-none Fire and
explosion data- not applicable Reactivity Data- stable Conditions to avoid-
none Hazardous decomposition products- none Other Sources – None
found.
Gelatin
Processing
Status Among U.S. Certifiers California Certified
Organic Farmers, Oregon Tilth Certified Organic, and Washington State
Department of Agriculture (WSDA) Organic Food Program — Not mentioned.
Organic Crop Improvement Association International (OCIA) — International
Certification Standards, effective date July 1, 2001, 9.4.3 Processing
Materials List: allowed as a processing production aid for fruits and vegetables
and in winemaking. Texas Department of Agriculture (TDA)Organic
Certification Program — Organic Certification Program Materials List
2000; lists as gelatin waxes—may be used as an aid in processing organic
fiber if removed by final scouring. International EU 2092/91 — Annex VI
— Gelatin is listed under “Processing aids and other products which
may be used for processing of ingredients of agricultural origin” in
Section B and under “Ingredients of Agricultural Origin Which Have Not
Been Produced Organically” in Section C. Codex Alimentarius —
Guideline for the Production, Processing, Labelling, and Marketing of
Organically Produced Foods CAC/GL 32-1999, Table 2 Substance for Plant Pest and
Disease Control, 1. Plant and Animal: listed. Table 4: Listed under
“processing aids which may be used for the preparation of products of
agricultural origin.” IFOAM — Basic Standards for Organic
Production and Processing, September 2000, Appendix 4 List of Approved
Ingredients of Non Agricultural Origin and Processing Aids Used in Food
Processing, Processing Aids and Other Products: listed for use in fruit &
vegetable products and wine. Ministry of Agricultural, Forestry and Fisheries
of Japan (MAFF) — Japan Agricultural Standard, Notification #60, Table 2 of food additives: allowed, with no annotation. Canada —
Canadian General Standards Board National Standard for Organic Agriculture
(CAN/CGSB-32.310-99), June 1999: permitted as a clarifying agent. Certified
Organic Associations of British Columbia (COABC) — British Columbia
Certified Organic Production Operation Policies and Farm Management Standards,
Section 9.14Processing and Handling Materials List, March 2001: nonhydrolysed
or hydrolysed, regulated as a processing production aid; Either form of gelatin
maybe used as a product processing aid, for now, but the producer must submit
to the certifying agency written details of their search to replace the
hydrolysed gelatin format with a non-hydrolysed gelatin or a completely
different product. Allowed for fruits and vegetables and in
winemaking. Naturland,
Germany —
Listed in the August 1999 General Processing Standards
in the “List of Permitted Ingredients, Additives, and Auxiliary
Products” as “food gelatin without additives (exclusively for
cream-like masses).” Miscellaneous Organic Grapes into Wine Alliance
(OGWA) — Lists ‘Fish based fining agents’ and
‘Non-hydrolized bone gelatin’ as ‘Tolerated clarifying
materials.’ ‘Hydrolized gelatin’ is prohibited.
Section 2119 OFPA U.S.C. 6518(m 1-7) Criteria
1. The potential of the substance for detrimental chemical
interactions with other materials used in organic farming systems. Fish,
bovine, and porcine gelatin are used directly in value-added food products and
juice and wine processing and therefore would not interact directly with other
materials used in organic farming systems. The petition notes that the spent
gelatin and bentonite are spread as fertilizer (Gass, 2001). There is no
indication of detrimental interactions from this application. The toxicity and mode of action of the substance and of its
breakdown products or any contaminants, and their persistence and areas of
concentration in the environment.Page 7 of 7
2.
Gelatin
Processing
There is no information available on the toxicity or
mode of action of gelatin. Since gelatin is a protein, it can be readily broken
down by proteolytic enzymes in foods such as papain, bromealin, and ficin, or
in the stomach by pepsin or chymotrypsin to shorter chain peptides and amino
acids. Chromium and pentachlorophenol from gelatin recovered from hides could
be possible contaminants. 3. 4. The probability of
environmental contamination during manufacture, use, misuse, or disposal of the
substance. This is covered under processing criteria 2 below. The effects of the substance on human health. Fish gelatin
may be contaminated with Clostridium botulinum and the consumption of fish
gelatin has resulted in documented fatal cases of botulism (Miller, 1975).
These incidents do not appear to be related to gelatin prepared by Good
Manufacturing Practices. Another human-health concern is allergenicity to
gelatin. Beef, pork, and fish gelatin all have been reported to cause
allergenic reactions (Sakaguchi, Hori, Ebihara, et al., 1999). Fish proteins
can cause allergic reactions at very low levels (Aas, 1966). Although no
allergic reactions to fish gelatin in processed, packaged foods have been
documented, some caution is noted in labeling foods that contain gelatin
(Taylor and Hefle, 2001). Fish-sensitive patients exposed to fish gelatin had
allergic reactions. Gelatin labeling may be required for certain products even
if the product contains onlyincidental amounts of an allergen (Taylor &
Hefle, 2001). Fish vary by species in their allergen composition and the
reactivity of sensitive patients (de Martino, et al., 1990). The use of gelatin
as an excipient in various vaccines and medications may result in immediate
severe allergic reactions—including anaphylactic shock—when the
vaccinations are administered to patients who have recently eaten food
containing gelatin (Sakaguchi, et al., 1996; Wahl and Kleinhans, 1989; Kelso,
et al., 1993). Reactions were noted with both bovine gelatin (Sakaguchi, Hori,
Ebihara, et al., 1999; Sakaguchi, Hori, Hattori, et al., 1999) and fish gelatin
(Sakaguchi, Toda, et al., 2000). The commercialization of soft, chewy (gummi)
candies increased gelatin consumption world-wide beginning around 1992 (Keenan,
1994). The increase in reactions to gelatin as an excipient in vaccines
administered in Japan
may be related to but not entirely explained by an increase in the consumption
by children of candy that contains gelatin (Nakayama, Aizawa, and Kuno-Sakai,
1999). Adult patients have had similar reactions (Sakaguchi, Kaneda, and
Inouye, 1999). Finally, the most recent human health concern to arise from
gelatin use has been the possible transmission of spongiform encephalophathy
(Mad Cow Disease) from infected animals through the production and
manufacturing operations (US FDA, 1997a). The FDA has not concluded that there
is a potential risk to humans from BSE transmitted from infected bovine animals
through gelatin, but has prohibited using sources of animal by-products
forgelatin manufacture if those sources were obtained form BSE positive
countries. Conclusions drawn from this study indicate that no sources of bovine
or porcine animal by-products from countries where there have been outbreaks
have been used for gelatin manufacturing. Since in the U.S. 98% of all bovine gelatin
is obtained from USDA Food Safety Inspection Service (FSIS) inspected plants
and 2% from Argentina, risk is very minimal on the transmission of this disease
via gelatin manufacture. The FDA now requires a certificate of origin for
gelatin coming in from nonBSE affected countries and the certificate of origin
must be endorsed by the veterinary service of the country where the gelatin is
manufactured, relating to the species and processing of the gelatin.
Additionally, there have been a few studies conducted to determine if the
infectious agent (prion) can retain its biological activity after undergoing
process manufacturing conditions since there is no diagnostic method available
other then direct inoculation. To date, all reported cases of BSE have been
bovine in origin, with no reported cases derived form porcine or fish. BSE
concerns have led manufacturers to replace bovine gelatin with other
hydrocolloids (Ledward, 2000). 5. The effects of the substance on biological
and chemical interactions in the agroecosystem, including the physiological
effects of the substance on soil organisms (including the salt index and
solubility of the soil), crops and livestock. Gelatin is a food ingredient and
is not applied to the soil or otherwise releasedinto the agroecosystem, except
as an inert ingredient and carrier in various formulations. The
alternatives to using the substance in terms of practices or other available
materials. See processing criteria 7 below. Its
compatibility with a system of sustainable agriculture. See processing
criteria 6 below.
6. 7.
Criteria From the February 10, 1999 NOSB Meeting
A PROCESSING AID OR ADJUVANT may be used if: 1. It cannot be produced from a
natural source and has no organic ingredients as substitutes.
Page 8 of 8
Gelatin
Processing
Gelatin is not found in nature, but is derived from collagen, a naturally
occurring protein (Budavari, 1996). One possible exception may be undenatured
isinglass (Ockerman, 1991) or isinglass that has been denatured by thermal
treatment (heating) (Hickman, et al., 2000). It is not clear if organic
collagen is commercially available, but it would ordinarily be considered an
agricultural commodity. Since gelatin is a purified, extracted protein if
derived from certified organic animals, its organic integrity would need to be
evaluated as a function of process operations. Kosher fish skins, prepared with
natural acids, and isinglass may be considered natural sources. However,
collagen—a natural protein—is converted to a biologically different
protein, gelatin, by cooking. The other ingredients used in preparation may be
nonsynthetic or synthetic. 2. Its manufacture, use, and disposal do not have
adverse effects on the environment and are done in a mannercompatible with
organic handling as described in section 6513 of the OFPA. As a slaughter
product, gelatin creates a number of environmental impacts related to meat
production. The major consideration during the manufacture of all forms of
gelatin is the large amount of process waste effluents generated during
manufacturing, which would contain mineral components and lipid material
(Hinterwaldner, 1977). This creates a high biological oxygen demand (BOD).
Waste effluents would be alkaline or acidic. Gelatin recovered from leather
tanning operations may generate chromium contaminated waste. Irradiation with
gamma rays may involve the use of radioactive material. Gelatin capsules may
involve the use of polyacrylamide, various aldehydes such as formaldehyde or
glutaraldehyde, and other synthetic compounds to harden and cross-link the
structures to make the capsules rigid. 3. If the nutritional quality of the
food is maintained and the material itself or its breakdown products do not
have adverse effects on human health as defined by applicable Federal
regulations. Gelatin is notable for its low nutritional value and poor protein
quality, and is often used as a textbook example for that purpose. It is one of
the few foods that has a negative protein efficiency
ratio (PER). That is, the test animals (rats) lost weight per gram of protein
in the form of eaten gelatin (Johnson and Peterson, 1974). This anomaly is
attributed to the fact that gelatin contains no tryptophan, and is deficient in
isoleucine, threonine, and methionine (Potter and Hotchkiss, 1998).During the
1970s, the low protein quality of collagen-based ‘Liquid Protein’
diet products led to Federal regulatory action (Vanderveen and Mitchell, 1981).
The Food and Drug Administration investigated the deaths of 17 relatively young
people, 13 with diets whose sole caloric intake came from a liquid collagen or
gelatin solution. The FDA subsequently developed regulations that modified the
label requirements of such diet products (US FDA, 1990). Despite its low
nutritional value, gelatin is not considered hazardous by applicable government
regulations. It is considered a food rather than a food additive. This covers
all three forms of gelatin--fish, bovine and porcine. Also see OFPA criteria 4,
above. 4. Its primary purpose is not as a preservative or used only to
recreate/improve flavors, colors, textures, or nutritive value lost during
processing except in the latter case as required by law. The primary use of
fish gelatin as described in the petition is for use as a processing aid to be
used in combination with bentonite to clarify the haze found in tea (Gass,
2001). Gelatin also has a significant number of additional food uses based on
its protein functionality in gelation, water binding, emulsification, adhesion,
film formation, cyrstallization control, thickening and stabilization, whipping
and foam generation, other beverage fining, and glaze formation (Hudson, 1994). Gelatin
appeared to be ‘among the first commercial raw materials suitable as a
contact preservative for meat and meat products’ (Henley, 1872; Hood,
1987). Certainapplications of gelatin are textural in nature, such as use as an
ingredient in confectionary and jelly desserts (Poppe, 1997), in yogurts and
other dairy products (Ledward, 2000), and as a thickener in soup (Cole, 2000).
Gelatin is particularly prized over possible substitutes for its texture and
mouth-feel (Stainsby, 1987). Is Generally Recognized As
Safe (GRAS) by FDA when used in accordance with Good Manufacturing Practices
(GMP), and contains no residues of heavy metals or other contaminants in excess
of FDA tolerances. The FDA recognizes gelatin as “Generally Recognized as
Safe” (GRAS). Because gelatin is considered a food, rather than a food
additive, it is GRAS by prior approval. Gelatin is listed as GRAS under 21 CFR
182.70, ‘substances migrating from cotton and cotton fabrics used in dry
food packaging.’ The FDA references to gelatin include
5.
Page 9 of 9
Gelatin
Processing
FDA References to Gelatin 21 CFR Title 133.178 Pasteurized Neufchatel
cheese spread with other foods. 133.179 Pasteurized process cheese spread.
172.230 Microcapsules for flavoring substances. 172.255 Polyacrylamide. 172.280
Terpene resin. 182.70 Substances migrating from cotton and cotton fabrics used
in dry food packaging. Source: EAFUS, 21 CFR. Sulfur dioxide used as a biocide
is often a contaminant (Cole, 2000). Chromium and pentachlorophenol are
regarded as potential contaminants of food-grade gelatin (Food Chemicals Codex,
1996) due to the use of leather as a source of collagen (Rose, 1990).
FoodChemicals Codex requirements for gelatin are: Identification: A. Gelatin
forms a reversible gel when tested as follows: Dissolve 10 g in 100 ml of hot water
in a suitable flask, and cool at 2°C. for 24 h. A
gel forms. Transfer the flask to a water bath heated to 60°C. Within 30
minutes, upon stirring, the gel reverts to the original liquid state. B. To a 1
in 100 solution of the sample, add trinitrophenol TS or a 1 in 1.5 solution of
potassium dichromate previously mixed with about one-fourth its volume of 3 N hydrochloric acid. A yellow precipitate forms. Ash:
Not more than 3.0% Chromium: Not more than 10 mg/kg Fluoride: Not more than
0.005% Heavy metals (as Pb): Not more than 0.002% Lead (as Pb): Not more than
1.5 mg/kg Loss on drying: Not more than 15.0% Microbial limits: E coli:
Negative in 25 g. Salmonella: Negative in 25 g. Pentachlorophenol limit: Not
more than 0.3 mg/kg Protein: the specification conforms to the representations
of the vendor. Sulfur dioxide: Not more than 0.005%. Gelatin also has the
potential to transmit pathogens. Fish gelatin from Alaska has plate-tested positive for
Clostridium botulinum type E, a source of botulism (Miller, 1975). The Animal
and Plant Health Inspection Service (APHIS) mandated a certificate of origin on
all imported gelatin from non-BSE countries (9 CFR 94.18).
‘Gelatin’ capsules are GRAS conditional upon their other
ingredients. Each of these would also need to be GRAS. Microcapsules used for
flavoring may contain any substance that FDA recognizes as GRAS ‘for the
purpose’ [21CFR 172.230(a 1)]. The FDA
alsoallows the following for microcapsules: Substances Considered GRAS for use
in Gelatin Capsules Substance Limitation succinylated gelatin Succinic acid
content of the gelatin is 4.5 to 5.5 percent. arabinogalactan
Complying with Sec. 172.610; as adjuvant. silicon
dioxide Complying with Sec. 172.480; as adjuvant. glutaraldehyde
As cross-linking agent for insolubilizing a coacervate of gum arabic and
gelatin. n-Octyl alcohol As a defoamer. petroleum wax Complying with Sec. 172.886. Not to exceed 50
percent by combined weight of the microcapsule and spice-flavoring substance.
172.255 polyacrylamide Not more than 0.2 percent of
acrylamide monomer may be safely used as a film former in the imprinting of
soft-shell gelatin capsules when the amount used is not in excess of the
minimum required to produce the intended effect. 172.280 terpene resin As a moisture barrier for gelatin capsules, at a level not
to exceed 0.07% of the weight of the capsule. Source: EAFUS, 21CFR. 21 CFR
172.230(a 2) 172.230(a)(2) 172.230(a)(2)
172.230(a)(3) 172.230(a)(3) 172.230(a)(4) 6. Its use is compatible with the
principles of organic handling.
Page 10 of 10
Gelatin
Processing
The petition is requesting approval for its use as a processing aid to form a
gelatin-bentonite complex to bind with soluble protein extracted in the tea.
The gelatin does not remain in the tea but precipitates out in the form of a
complex and is not carried over in the final organic product. This is also true
for application of gelatin inbeer, juice, and white wine clarification.
However, for many other uses in food systems gelatin would be present as a
specific functional ingredient in that product formulation and would have to be
listed on the label of the product. Increasing numbers of consumers of organic
wine request wine fined without animal products, but in general production of
wine to vegetarian standards is not considered a requirement (Elliot, 2000). 7.
There is no other way to produce a similar product without its use and it is
used in the minimum quantity required to achieve the process. Gelatin has some
unique functional properties that are similar, but not identical in a number of
other gels. The long molecular strands and partially stacked triple helixes
found in gelatin offer a strength and flexibility not found in, say, alginate,
cornstarch, or carrageenan (Walstra, 1996). These vegetable-based substitutes
lack the ‘melt-in-the-mouth’ and elastic properties of gelatin
(Cole, 2000). The petition states, “We have found a gelatin bentonite
combination to work best in removing the haze causing proteins found in tea,
while hot processing. In addition, gelatin fining can be used in conjunction
with diatomaceous earth filtration which is less expensive and more versatile
than membrane or ultra-filtration for the range of teas and botanicals that
Tazo filters. Other clarifying agents that can be used are silica gel, and
tannic acid. Tannic acid requires cold processing, and finding an exact-dosage
is difficult. Silica fining agents require settling, and would also work bestin
conjunction with gelatin” (Gass, 2001). Fruit juice clarification and
fining wine can be carried out with enzymes, diatomaceous earth (Shaw, 1994),
rice hulls, egg whites, bentonite clay, pectin, and cellulose. Pectolytic
enzymes are probably the most common and reliable method for apple juice clarification
(USDA, 1982). Apple juice can also be physically clarified by flash heat,
electrokinetic adsorption, and filtration (USDA, 1982). The use of gelatin has
an advantage over pectin in that it does not foul the membranes used to filter
juice. Tannin shares this advantage (Riedl, Girard, and Lencki, 1998). Wine
that has been fined is qualitatively different from unfined wine. Various
fining agents also produce different results in fining. One study indicated
that the use of gelatin enabled a more accurate determination of sulfite levels
in white wine by the removal of interfering polyphenols (Matsumoto, et al.,
1989). The minimum active gelatin dosage needed to fine wine depends on both
the wine’s and the gelatin’s parameters. Home winemakers use between
0.25 and 2 grams of gelatin per gallon of red wine and between 0.0825 and 0.25
grams per gallon of white wine. The amount of isinglass typically ranges
between 0.05 to 0.3 grams per gallon, with white wine typically receiving about
one gram per gallon (Eisenmann, 1999). Polyphenol content, turbidity, color
intensity, and brown polymers content in the wine creates a greater demand for
fining agents. Ellagic acid may be a special concern with muscadine wine (Lin
and Vine, 1990). The gelatin’scapacity to aggregate and remove the
undesired properties depends on the degree of hydrolysis expressed as the
distribution of molecular weights and the net charge density of the gelatin
(Versari, et al., 1998). Most of the same substitutes can be used in clarifying
juice can also be used to fine wine: bentonite clay, colloidal silica,
diatomaceous earth, casein, and egg whites (Eisenmann, 1999). While these do
not create identical finishes to gelatin and isinglass, they are able to remove
the tannins, lees, and other particles and impurities that are removed by
gelatin and isinglass. One study compared undenatured isinglass (crude swim
bladders), thermally denatured and purified isinglass, and bovine collagen
treated with acetic acid and the enzyme pepsin. The undenatured isinglass was
found to be more effective at aggregating yeast and other insoluble particles
found in beer than the denatured fish gelatin. Bovine hide collagen was found
the most effective treatment (Hickman et al., 2000). Gelatin fining can be used
with diatomaceous earth filtration. Additionally, fish gelatin may be more cost
effective especially in comparison to process ultra filtration, which would be
capital intensive (Gass, 2001). Because excessive amounts can lead to
discoloration and—particularly in the case of fish
gelatin—off-flavors, gelatin is used sparingly (Tressler and Joslyn,
1954). These drawbacks have led to gelatin’s replacement in many
processes. For beer, irish moss, bentonite, papain,
egg whites, isinglass, silica gel, and other materials are possible clarifiers
andfining agents (Brewers Resource, 2001). Fungally-derived gellan gum is also
described in an abstract to be a potential replacement for isinglass (Dartey,
1993). Fish gelatin can serve as a substitute for various dairy products as
oil-in-water emulsifiers, with certain limitations (Dickinson and Lopez, 2001).
Of the emulsifiers included in the study, sodium caseinate performed the best.
This implies that sodium caseinate, casein hydrolyzate, and whey protein
isolate may be used as substitutes for fish gelatin. Consumer demand for
vegetable-based substitutes has created incentives to develop alternatives to
gelatin that are
Page 11 of 11
Gelatin
Processing
similarly low in fat. Researchers have explored various hydrocolloids and fluid
gels, including carrageenans, agars, agarose, alginates, pectins, and gellans
(Norton, Foster, and Brown, 1998). While pectin and sodium alginate combined
may have comparable rheological qualities to gelatin, the
pectin used in one experiment was been chemically treated by amidation
with an unspecified agent (Madsen, 2000). Cellulose can substitute for gelatin
in the making of vegetarian / vegan capsules. See the cellulose TAP review.
TAP Reviewer Discussion2
Reviewer 1 [Ph.D, Biochemistry with food industry experience. Eastern
U.S.] Identification . . . Strictly speaking, isinglass is not
“gelatin,” although it has similar properties and similar
applications. The ‘title’ of this material review should be
“Gelatins and Isinglass.” Characterization The fishgelatin
manufacturing procedure is unequivocally described here as involving only food
acids (acetic, lactic or citric). The excellent literature sources accompanying
the TAP Review speak only to “acid” and usually mineral acid
(sulfuric and hydrochloric) in describing production of gelatin from young
animal (including fish) skins. For isinglass, most commentators would agree
that “gelatin” is the material extracted from collagen by hot
water. Since isinglass (a) is used directly without extraction, (b) is not
extracted with hot water and (c) loses much of its functionality when treated
with hot water, it should be treated on its own merits (“gelatin
substitute”) and not as gelatin. The presentation to FDA by the U.S.
manufacturers of porcine gelatin and the review by Hinterwalter (1977a) make it
clear that economic and effluent disposal issues are driving Type A porcine gelatin manufacture to simpler and less
environmentally impactful processes. The basics of the process – soak
food grade skin in acid to swell the collagen (similar to pickling cucumbers or
making sauerbraten), rinse to neutralize the acid, extract the gelatin with hot
water – seem to me compatible with organic processing. The alkali process
is well-described. My reservation here is that the bone-to-ossein-to-gelatin
process is lumped with the process for chromium-tanned hides. The ossein
process is somewhat more drastic than the acid process, since strong acid and a
lower pH are needed to dissolve the bone mineral. The alkali soak using calcium
hydroxide is analogous to theoriginal way of making masa (lime water soaking of
corn). Other alkalis (e.g., sodium hydroxide) would be less acceptable.
Chromium-tanned hides are synthetic materials, unlike animal bones and animal
skins, which are agricultural products. The enzymatic processes do not seem to
be commercially important. Gelatin CAPSULES do not belong in this section or in
this document. Gelatin capsules routinely comprise other ingredients. Rarely
are they ‘pure’ gelatin. Capsules merely
represent an ingestible product (food, supplement or drug) of which gelatin is
an ingredient. Cross-linked gelatins can be chemically modified (thus
synthetic) or enzyme-modified (synthetic if the enzyme is produced by a GMO).
They should be the subject of a separate TAP Review. Status It
is significant that the USDA Grading Manual for Canned Apple Juice specifically
mentions the “Gelatin-tannin Method” for clarifying apple juice.
The petitioned use of gelatin for tea clarification is an exemplification of
the same principle. It also is significant that the BATF regulations for
“Storage, Treatment and Finishing of Wine” [27 CFR 24.246] permit
the use of gelatin (food grade) to clarify juice or wine. The same regulations
permit use of isinglass to clarify wine and indicate that isinglass is GRAS per
FDA advisory opinion dated 02/25/1985.
OMRI’s information is enclosed is square brackets in italics. Where a
reviewer corrected a technical point (e.g., the word should be
“intravenous” rather than “subcutaneous”), these
corrections were made in this document and are not listed here in theReviewer
Comments. The rest of the TAP Reviewer’s comments are edited for any
identifying comments, redundant statements, and typographical errors. Text
removed is identified by ellipses […]. Statements expressed by reviewers
are their own and do not reflect the opinions of any other individual or
organizations. Page 12 of 12
2
Gelatin
Processing
It would be useful to know exactly which of the materials used in preparing
bones, hides, or skins are reportable under the EPCRA, in order to judge the
significance of this mention. OFPA Criteria Criterion No. 1: The petition mentions
that the filter cake, comprising gelatin, bentonite and diatomaceous earth in
addition to juice or tea tannins, proteins, etc., are applied to the land as
‘fertilizer,’ which takes advantage of the nitrogen in the gelatin.
Criterion No. 2: The chromium, which is present in tanned hides, is toxic. Use
of tanned hides to manufacture gelatin for use in organic food processing is
incongruous at the least. Note that pentachlorophenol appears to be used only
in inedible gelatin manufacture. Criterion No. 3: The petition and the TAP
review do not get deeply into the issue of environmental contamination related
to the gelatin manufacturing process. The two industry presentations to FDA in
1997 indicate that the economic costs of pollution control are forcing the
industry in developed countries to take various steps to reduce the
environmental impact. For example, solvent extraction of fat from skins, hides,
and bones isbeing replaced by steam and physical methods. Criterion No. 4:
Gelatin is GRAS [Generally Recognized As Safe].
Commercial porcine and bovine gelatins are sterilized prior to noodle creation
and drying. The allergy issue is becoming a greater concern. Since there is
always some carry-over into the finished food, species labeling of processing
aids makes sense. The BSE [Mad Cow Disease] is not an issue in North America at this moment with regard to gelatin.
Criterion No. 5: The TAP Review is not complete on this criterion at this point
in the TAP Review. Gelatin is used to filter natural beverages and it is
logical to expect that the resulting filter cake will be composted or applied
directly to land as a useful soil amendment (one with a
substantial nitrogen content). This is a good thing. Criterion No. 6:
Although other methods for clarifying juices and other beverages exist, the use
of gelatin, alone or with other substances (tannin for apple juice,
diatomaceous earth for tea, etc.), appears to offer advantages in certain
circumstances [see petitioner statement]. Criterion No. 7: Making gelatin from pigskins,
cattle hides, and cattle bones is compatible with
sustainable agriculture. These practices go back hundreds to thousands of
years, and use as starting materials animal tissues that would otherwise not be
used, thus lowering the cost of meat. NOSB Criteria NOSB Criterion 1: Gelatin
is produced from a natural source – pigskins, fish skins, cattle hides,
and cattle bones. Organic gelatin could be produced from organically raised
hogs and cattle,depending on the process. The acid
process induces little or no chemical change in the collagen and the collagen
is converted to extractable gelatin by ‘cooking’ in hot water.
Cooking is allowed as a process in OFPA. NOSB Criterion 2: The TAP Review does
not provide sufficient detail on the industrial disposal problems resulting
from gelatin manufacture as it is performed in the U.S. in the Twenty-first Century.
See OFPA Criterion No. 3 above. NOSB Criterion 3: The TAP Review discussion
treats gelatin as if it is only and always the sole protein in the diet. In its
normal use as a food ingredient (where it is about 2.5% of a dessert product)
and in its normal use as a processing aid (where it is removed totally from the
beverage to achieve its intended clarifying effect), gelatin has a minimal
impact on an individual’s protein nutrition. Edible gelatin is a FOOD; it
is not a food additive. NOSB Criterion 4: In beverage processing
(clarification), gelatin has the effect of improving color (it removes
turbidity). In gelatin desserts, gelatin creates the texture. In meats, the
effect of gelatin can best be described as improving texture, since it binds
the water of cooking. The same holds true for yogurts, soups, and other
semi-liquid products. NOSB Criterion 5: Gelatin is a food. Gelatin is GRAS.
Isinglass also is GRAS. NOSB Criterion 6: The TAP Review is not accurate in
limiting beverage clarification uses of gelatin to tea and wine [see “all
other uses in food systems”]. Gelatin is also used to clarify beer, fruit
juices, and, historically, coffee.Directing attention to the criterion itself,
using Type A fish or porcine gelatin (prepared by the
acid method) or isinglass, all of which are non-synthetic agricultural
substances, to clarify beverages seems imminently compatible with the
principles of organic handling.
Page 13 of 13
Gelatin
Processing
NOSB Criterion 7: Other means of clarifying juices, wine, and tannin-containing
beverages (tea, coffee, beer) exist but each has
advantages depending on the system. Economically and functionally, it is
important to use the minimum quantity required to achieve the intended effect,
since using more can actually create turbidity in the final product.
Recommendation: List as nonsynthetic, and allowed. Annotation: From animal bones
and animal skins prepared with agricultural products and items on the National
List (7 CFR 205.605) and not chemically modified. Reviewer 2
[PhD. Food science, organic and natural foods industry consultant, Western U.S.] My determination is that gelatin is
a non-agricultural substance and should be considered non-synthetic for both
95% organic and Made with Organic. It should be
allowed as a texturizer, coating and binder (no hard capsule applications); no
sulfur dioxide or hydrogen peroxide allowed in the process. For the most part
(see comments regarding questions below), I agree with the information
contained in the TAP review and I feel that it is generally complete. …..
Fish gelatin, in particular, seems to use only natural processes for extraction.
Thepre-treatments in acid or base for beef or pork gelatin are harsh, but are
primarily used to make the extraction more efficient and do not chemically
participate in the reaction. Gelatin capsules should be considered synthetic,
unless available without chemical hardening agents and not allowed. Soft gel
capsules, which only use glycerol as a plasticizer, may be okay. Gelatin used
as a texturizer or coating agent is compatible with organic production. The
issue of animal versus vegetable products is one that is consistent with its
application as a fining agent. Since animal products are certified organic,
there should be no reason why gelatin would not be compatible with organic
processing. There are many other fining agents that can be used, some of which
are mentioned in the petition. Vegetarian/vegan gel caps are made of
hydroxypropylmethylcellulose, which although cellulose-derived, would be
considered synthetic. Chemically modified celluloses were not considered in the
cellulose TAP review. 1 You can get more information at www.vegicaps.com, made
by RP Scherer or at www.capsugel.com, who make a
competitive product called Vcaps. Gelatin may be used as a texturizer and
coating agent. It may also be used in capsules, although I believe the process
renders the product synthetic and incompatible with organic. It would be
preferred that they not come from genetically engineered organisms. These
products should be run through OMRI’s decision tree on genetic
modification as a first step for the determination of whether they should be
considered excluded tobe consistent with other processes and determinations.
The issues around nutritional quality are really only applicable where gelatin
is the sole source of protein as in the liquid protein diets. They could be another
excluded application, I suppose. The use of gelatin at the usage levels for
texturization or coating is not sufficient to cause nutritional quality
degradation. It technically could be possible to create an organic [gelatin
dessert] from organic animals, organic cane sugar, and organic flavor. It would
only be a problem if someone tried to live on organic [gelatin dessert] alone.
I am not sure what additional information is needed from an exhaustive review
of fining agent articles. It seems to be an acceptable process if the gelatin
is processed correctly. Reviewer 3 [Academic researcher with experience as a
public health official, East Coast] I agree with the TAP Review with regard to
gelatin itself, but perhaps processing criteria 2 and 5 should be referenced
here, since there are issues of environmental contamination related to
substances attendant to the manufacture, use, misuse, or disposal of gelatin.
1. The effects of the substance on human health. There appear to be a variety
of human health risks related to gelatin. I have put them in four general
categories for purposes of this discussion. The nature and magnitude of these
risks vary depending on the species of animal from which
1 Cellulose TAP review, 9-29-01 did discuss process for microcrystalline
cellulose, a more highly modified form. TAP reviewers and NOSB did notrecommend
this form for approval.
Page 14 of 14
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Processing
the collagen (the raw material for gelatin) is derived, the part of the animal
that is used, the end-use of the gelatin, and the process by which the gelatin
is extracted and treated, and many other factors. For purposes of this
discussion, I have limited my consideration to those factors that bear most
directly on the decision at hand. BSE: According to the FDA in 1997, about 55%
of gelatin consumed in the US
was derived from pigs, and about 45% from cattle. As of May 1997, gelatin was
being imported from the a number of countries, primarily Argentina, Australia,
Belgium, Brazil, Columbia, Germany, Mexico, New Zealand, South Africa, and
Sweden (anonymous, 1997). Since that time only Argentina,
Australia, Brazil, and New Zealand remain as countries
generally considered without risk for BSE. In December 2000, the World Health
Organization (WHO) announced that 500,000 tons of meat and bone meal produced
by the European Union had been exported over the last 10 years to Eastern
Europe, Asia, and the US
(International Herald Tribune, 17 March 2001). According to a recent report
from The Institute of Food Science & Technology (IFST), the United Kingdom’s independent professional
qualifying body for food scientists and technologists, WHO has stated that over
100 countries are at risk for BSE and countries
throughout Europe have now reported cases of
BSE. According to WHO, countries can be placed in four categories of risk
thatlive cattle could be infected with the BSE agent and incubating the
disease. Only 14 countries are in Category I (highly unlikely to present a BSE
risk). The US, along with Canada, is in
Category II (unlikely but a BSE risk cannot be excluded). Category III
countries are comprised mostly by Eastern Europe
and are likely to present a BSE risk or have a low level of confirmed risk.
Category IV countries have a confirmed risk at a high level such as the United
Kingdom (UK) (IFST, 2001). BSE has recently spread to Asia as well, as cases
have been reported in Hong Kong and Korea (Medical Industry Today, 17
August 2001). In the fall of 2001, the first case in Japan was reported (IFST, 2001).
Governments are scrambling to tighten their borders and the level of
prohibition of feed sources in an effort to bolster public confidence.
Currently, the European Commission (EC) has a total suspension in effect for
member states on the feeding of processed animal protein to farmed animals used
for the production of food. Among the few exceptions allowed to member states
are fishmeal for non-ruminant feed and gelatin of non-ruminant animals for
coating additives (EC ). Japan extended
their ban on ruminant meat and bone meal in cattle feed to include an extensive
list of animal protein products banned from use in swine and poultry feed as
well as fertilizers. The list includes fishmeal except if it is made at plants
where no animal protein other than fishmeal is produced, and gelatin from
collagen excluding that derived from skin/hide and treated in a certain manner(Japan Ministry of Agriculture, Forestry and Fisheries
press release, 2 October 2001). In a little heralded fact, BSE has already
appeared in North America as a single cow imported from Britain died of BSE in Canada (Johnson
and Gibbs, 1998). In addition, between 1980 and 1989, 334 animals were brought
from the UK to the US. The USDA
traced the disposition of these animals and determined that 161 were disposed
of in a manner that poses no risk to humans or other animals, but it cannot
make this conclusion about the other 173 animals (USDA, 2001). Unfortunately,
no amount of government action may restore consumer confidence. The BSE Inquiry
conducted by the UK government issued its final report in the fall of 2001 and
identified a number of problems with the handling of the BSE outbreak:
excessive government secrecy and unjustified public reassurances; inadequate communication
among government departments; inadequate handling of hazard and uncertainty;
lack of foresight and planning; ineffective enforcement of control measures;
lack of correct use of scientific advisory committees; and, inadequate
coordination of research (IFST, 2001). The lack of faith in regulatory barriers
is evident throughout the food industry, and not only in the UK. Major foodprocessing and grocery store chains in Europe and the US are requesting written guarantees and
“traceable evidence” from beef suppliers (including those based in
the US)
that no meat or bone meal is used as feed. This has had the direct effect of
inducing commercial feed companies in England
to relyincreasingly on vegetable proteins, in particular organic soybean meal (Preston, 2001). US cattle producers organized a private
meeting with the FDA and USDA to improve compliance and the American Feed
Industry Association set up an independent third-party certification program
after FDA released a report in early 2001 revealing the occurrence of numerous
violations of labeling requirements and the lack of system safeguards to keep
ruminant and non-ruminant by-products separated (Center for Science in the
Public Interest, 2001). A risk analysis conducted by Harvard for the USDA theorizes
that in the unlikely event that BSE should be introduced to this country,
control measures already in place would ensure that few if any animals would
get sick and that the disease would soon die out. The authors of the study
admit that this assumes the disease is spread through the feeding of infected
rendered animals to susceptible animals. It further acknowledges that
violations of the feed ban have occurred and that
Page 15 of 15
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Processing
many unknowns, including the exact origin of the disease, remain unresolved. It
cannot say that the disease will never occur here (USDA 2001). Urgent research
needs remain – the exact mechanism of transmission, whether muscle meat
or milk, carry infectivity at too low a level to be measured or detected by
existing methods, and what is the infective dose, or whether it is a single
dose or cumulative (IFST, 2001). A member of FDA’s BSE Advisory
Committeestated that perhaps the most practical way to gauge the risk presented
by gelatin in the US is on a scale of relative risk, where the highest risk
would be from bovine-bone gelatin, produced by a non-alkaline process in
countries with BSE or unknown BSE status and the lowest risk would be from pork
skin gelatin from US produced pork (SCRIP # 2228, 2 May 1997). Another
unresolved issue is whether the risk is confined entirely to
bovine by-products. Pork has been linked to increased risk of CJD in at least
two studies (Hansen, 1999). Another recent study in rodents indicates that the
species barrier may not be as protective as previously thought, permitting
speculation “…that chickens, pigs, or other livestock fed
BSEinfected animal feed may be silent carriers of the disease” (Balter,
2000). One case of nvCJD was a strict vegetarian as of 1985 onward, indicating
that the person was exposed before the clinical recognition of BSE in 1986, or
there was occult exposure from prepared/processed foods, pharmaceuticals or
cosmetics (Collinge, 1999). Unfortunately, even fishmeal is a focus of concern
in Europe, at least, for cross-contamination
with potentially BSEinfected materials from other species of rendered animals.
For carnivorous farm fish, such as salmon (a commonly used fish for isinglass
according to the petition), blood meal, liver meal, meat and bone meal, and
poultry by-products are all considered substitutes for fishmeal, although their
commercial availability is unknown (Goldburg and Triplett, 1997). Allergy: Fish
and shellfish are among the mostcommonly allergenic foods. Cod is one of the
most commonly allergenic fish. Cod skins are a common source of fish gelatin
(Taylor and Hefle, 2001). Many food ingredients are made from commonly
allergenic sources, including fish gelatin. The threshold to allergenic
residues is unknown, although it is reasonably well
documented that food-allergic individuals can react to mere traces of the
offending food (Taylor and Hefle, 2000). While some fish apparently elicit
greater reactivity in sensitive individuals, recent evidence indicates that
there is cross-reactivity of such individuals to gelatins from various fishes
(Sakaguchi et al, 2000). The Codex Alimentarius says that fish and shellfish
are commonly allergenic and should be listed as ingredients no matter what amount
results in the final product (Taylor and Hefle, 2001). Recent evidence
indicates that there is cross-reactivity of individuals sensitive to fish
gelatin to bovine gelatin, albeit at a low level (Sakaguchi et al, 2000). Even
though beef and pork are rarely considered to be allergenic foods (Taylor and
Hefle, 2001), bovine and porcine gelatin have been associated with the
production of anaphylaxis in vaccinated children with doses containing as
little as 1 mg. of gelatin (Sakaguchi et al, 1996). The CDC regards the risk of
gelatin anaphylaxis seriously enough to recommend that vaccination of children
with a history of anaphylaxis to products containing gelatin should be pursued
with extreme caution and suggests that skin-testing is available (US CDC, 2000).
In my opinion, residue testshave limits of detection and the quantum of
substance exposure required for inciting anaphylaxis is not known, so
definitive statements concerning the presence or absence of any allergenic
particles in the final products can’t really be justified, even if the
substance is only used for processing. Microbial Contamination: My review of
the US Centers for Disease Control (US CDC) database did not reveal any
additional references to the risk of Clostridium botulinum infection from fish
gelatin beyond those already mentioned in the TAP review. As far as the risk of
food-borne microbial contamination from gelatin overall, the risk appears to be
low considering the volume of use. A white paper from FDA’s Center for
Food Safety and Applied Nutrition (September 1999) included a literature review
of food-borne disease caused by food handling practices from 1975-1998,
indicated that gelatin glazes, such as those in baked goods or aspic glazes
used to preserve the shelf-life of cold foods, occasionally were implicated as
sources of contamination (Guzewich and Ross, 1999). Aflatoxins are a problem
for farm fish according to FDA, but whether this can result in contamination of
meat from animals fed on aflatoxin-infected grain does not seem to have been
addressed. Occasionally, however, meat samples do contain aflatoxins, but what
the cause is remains the question (FDA, Food Residue Program reports, various years). Environmental Contaminants: In 1991, FDA
said that the harvest of farmed fish had increased four-fold from 10 years ago
(FDA Food Residue MonitoringProgram report, 1991). In 1992, FDA said that 10%
of the total seafood harvest was from aquaculture. The majority species were
catfish, trout, salmon, crawfish, shrimp, clams, and mussels. Twenty-five
percent of the aquaculture samples tested by FDA had detectable pesticide
residues including DDT, dieldrin, and chlordane at 25, 20 and 10 times the FDA
Action Levels, respectively (FDA Food Residue Monitoring Program report, 1992).
Page 16 of 16
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Processing
Farm fish are treated with a number of products such as disinfectants,
herbicides, vaccines, parasiticides, and drugs. A fish commonly used for
isinglass is catfish (see materials with petition), which also comprises 50% of
all aquaculture in the US.
These are typically fed a commercially prepared pelleted feed, high in protein,
and consisting of soybeans, corn, wheat, and fishmeal (FDA Consumer Magazine,
1991). Summary: In general, the human health risks for the 3 sources of gelatin
can be summarized as follows: Bovine – very low risk of contamination
with BSE, low risk of microbial contamination, low risk of environmental
contaminants, and low risk of allergenicity; Porcine – negligible risk of
BSE, low risk of microbial contamination, low risk of environmental
contaminants, and low risk of allergenicity; Fish – only theoretical risk
of BSE, some risk of microbial contamination, low risk of environmental
contaminants, and some risk of allergenicity. Processing
criteria 1. It cannot be produced from a natural source and has
noorganic ingredients as substitutes. Not withstanding the possibility of
organic collagen being commercially available or deriving gelatin from Kosher
fish skins with minimal processing, my opinion is that the products we are
considering fall into the category of “nonagricultural substances,”
as defined in the Federal Register (65 FR 80,640 [2000]). The key words in that
definition that appear to characterize gelatin are “… that the
identity of the agricultural product is unrecognizable in the extract, isolate,
or fraction.” 2. Its manufacture, use and disposal do not have any
adverse effects on the environment and are done in a manner compatible with
organic handling as described in section 6513 of the OFPA. In addition to the
information provided in the TAP review already, there are four processes that
have recently been proposed for the sterilization of gelatin by the European
Commission (EC) Scientific Steering Committee (SSC) on TSE Risks from Gelatin
Derived from Ruminants. Three of them involve various applications of chemicals
such as hydrochloric acid, saturated lime, and sodium hydroxide, but a fourth
is autoclaving (a heat/pressure/time process). (EC SSC Updated Opinion, 6-7
September 2001) The waste materials resulting from the rendering of 50 billion
lbs. of animal protein each year are voluminous (USDA, transcript of press
conference on release of Harvard BSE risk analysis, 2001). 3. If the
nutritional quality of the food is maintained and the material itself or its
breakdown products do not have adverse effects on human health as defined
byapplicable Federal regulations. I don’t have much to add to the TAP
Review for this question, except that gelatin’s role in food processing
does not appear to be nutritive. My comments on the adverse health effects can
be found under OFPA criteria 4 above. Its primary purpose is not as a
preservative or used only to recreate/improve flavors, colors, textures, or
nutritive value lost during processing except in the latter case as required by
law. My reading indicates that gelatin’s function in food processing can
be characterized generally as preservative, textural, and esthetic enhancement.
Is Generally Recognized As Safe (GRAS) by FDA when
used in accordance with Good Manufacturing Practices (GMP), and contains no
residues of heavy metals or other contaminants in excess of FDA tolerances. The
FDA’s advisory committee seems to leave the continued status of gelatin
as uniformly GRAS in doubt. As of the spring of 1998, FDA was leaning towards
no longer considering gelatin GRAS if its derivation came from BSE countries
(SCRIP #2328, 22 April 1998). The 1997 FDA Guidance document states that the
majority opinion of the advisory committee is that gelatin should no longer
continue to be exempted from restrictions placed on other bovine materials from
BSE countries (FDA Guidance 1997). It is still listed as GRAS as of the April
2001 publication of the CFR under the same category as noted in the TAP Review
(21 CFR 182.70). On the question of whether sulfur dioxide is added as a
biocide added to gelatin, I only came across a reference that it protects
beeragainst bacterial spoilage in addition to slowing down the rate at which
staleness and haze develop. A new area of research is to induce yeast to
produce natural sulfite during the fermentation process (Simpson, paper
presented at Institute of Brewing Africa Section workshop, 1999). 6. Its use is
compatible with the principles of organic handling.
5.
Page 17 of 17
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The use of gelatin may be counter to principles of organic handling because of
the potential for human health risks and consumer deception (albeit unintentional).
All sources of gelatin carry some health risks, with fish gelatin probably
being the highest in terms of incidence and bovine being the most grave and
fear-inducing in terms of consequence. The potential for consumer deception
arises because some consumers (e.g., vegetarians and Halal/Kosher adherents)
who have an aversion to products formulated with meat or fish (possibly
containing traces of these substances), will be ingesting such products
unknowingly. As food ingredients, gelatin’s uses do not appear to be
essential enough to outweigh its incompatibility with organic principles due to
the human health risks. As clarifying agents for beverages, there is an element
of consumer misinformation involved in their use and some unquantifiable public
health risk, in which the incidence is low, but the consequences are severe. In
addition, there is the concept that what gelatins actually do for beverages is
act as preservatives or appearanceenhancers, and hence constitute an
unnecessary production input incompatible with sustainable agriculture and
organic principles, given that gelatin is not an organic ingredient and carries
other possible risks. As coatings for animal products, there is some risk of
BSE transmission, and alternatives appear to exist or be commercially feasible.
In addition, several commentators have indicated that animal-derived gelatin is
increasingly viewed with disfavor by various sectors of the food industry. More
and more brewers will abandon the use of animal finings in the future because
risks outweigh benefits (Simpson, Institute of Brewing workshop, 1999). BSE
concerns have led manufacturers to replace bovine gelatin with other
hydrocolloids (TAP Review). The drawbacks of fish gelatin relative to
off-flavors and discoloration have led to gelatin’s replacement in many
processes (TAP Review). Gelatin remains unpopular in fruit juice clarification
because it creates a haze (TAP Review). 7. There is no other way to produce a
similar product without its use and it is used in the minimum quantity required
to achieve the process. There are at least three companies pursuing production
of genetically engineered gelatin (two in California
and one in the Netherlands)
(Biocentury Report, 22 January 2001). Fibrogen was expected to begin large-scale
commercial production using yeast and genetically altered tobacco plants as of
the second half of 2000 (Food Industry News website, 21 December 2001).
However, from the brief descriptions that I have seen of these processes inthe
sources cited as terms such as “transgenic” and
“recombinantly” were used, thus apparently bringing them within the
purview of “excluded methods” according to my reading of the
regulation (65 FR 80, 639 [2000]). Coatings - Most gelatin
used in vaccines is derived from pigskin, while tablets and capsules use a
mixture of bone and pigskin because a capsule made solely from pigskin gelatin
would become brittle. As coatings for animal supplements and medications,
gelatin may play a role that may be more difficult to duplicate with materials
compatible with organic principles. However, some substitutes such as cellulose
coatings are mentioned in the TAP Review. Furthermore, non-capsule
formulations, e.g. powders, may be feasible alternatives. Food uses -
Gelatin’s “useful” properties appear to be mainly
preservative, esthetic, or textural, which can be replaced in general by
mechanical processing or biologically inert substances, possibly of organic
origin. Wine Clarifying Agent – The COABC recommends natural settling and
racking but “tolerates”: isinglass, nonhydrolyzed bone gelatin,
bentonite, kaolin, pure casein, diatomaceous earth, fresh egg whites, cellulose
plate filters, centrifugation, sterile filtration with membrane filters, and
cross-flow filtration. Beer Clarifying Agent – As beer ages it develops
haze. Older haze control agents such as papain and tannins are being replaced
by ones allowing haze control for up to 18 months. This is not necessarily a
good thing as it permits marketers to label their products with longer shelf
life than itreally deserves because the appearance of freshness is maintained.
Other drawbacks specific to gelatin are that some consumers who are vegetarians
or otherwise concerned about the use of animal products may be averse to these
food-processing agents, despite dubious protestations that they do not survive
into the final product – an assertion that can be evaluated by a
hydroxyproline test (Simpson, Institute of Brewing workshop, 1999). Other
Beverages – Alternatives are discussed in both the TAP Review and the
information submitted with the petition. Recommendation for NOP Listing: My
recommendation is that gelatin should be prohibited as a Processing Production
Aid. If prohibition is not feasible because there are no better alternatives
for certain uses, then the allowed status listing should have an annotation
limiting it to certain uses and requiring precautionary labeling that informs
customers that a specific type of gelatin was used in processing.
Page 18 of 18
[end of TAP Reviewer comments
Gelatin
Processing
TAP Conclusion: Gelatin can be made from a variety of different sources by a
number of different processes. Some gelatin sources are agricultural and some
are non-agricultural. The petitioned source appears to be non-agricultural.
Some of the processes result in synthetic reactions and some are more like
cooking in ways that the NOSB has not considered to be synthetic under OFPA.
The process used to prepare the petitioned material appears to be nonsynthetic.
Isinglass fromwild-caught fish also appears to be non-agricultural and
nonsynthetic. Two TAP Reviewers wanted to allow gelatin with limitations; one
thought that gelatin should be prohibited for use in organic handling and processing.
The two reviewers who advised that it be recommended for inclusion on the
National List both wanted to allow only gelatin produced by certain
manufacturing processes. The review appears to support the inclusion of
isinglass and fish gelatin from fish processed with food acids and substances
on the National List under 205.605(a) as nonsynthetic and non-agricultural;
Type A (porcine) gelatin would be considered
agricultural and nonsynthetic if it were processed only with items on the
National List. Therefore, porcine gelatin could be listed as commercially
unavailable under 7 CFR 205.606. The NOSB might want
to consider further restrictions on bovine sources of gelatin, to restrict to
sources not derived from hides tanned with chromium or treated with other
synthetic substances such as pentachlorophenol; or further modified and cross
linked. If the NOSB decides to permit use of some types of gelatin based on
production method— such as non-chemically modified or cross-linked, not
derived from chromium tanned hides—processors and certifiers will need to
verify that the source meets the standard. (Although the TAP review does not
specifically address livestock applications, gelatin is used as a carrier for
vitamin formulations, similar to use in human food supplements. The NOSB may
want to consider whether gelatin would be considered aslaughter by-product,
based on the information provided about manufacturing sources.)
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This TAP review was completed pursuant to United States Department of
Agriculture Purchase Order 43-6395-0-2900A.
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