Eat or Avoid
E921

L-Cystine

Leavening Agents

Safety rating

Generally Safe

Eat Away!Generally SafeUse SparinglyAvoid
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Purpose and Function

L-Cystine is a naturally occurring amino acid used as an improving agent in baking, strengthening dough by forming disulfide bonds that enhance elasticity and texture in bread, pasta, and other wheat-based products.

Commonly found in

  • Bread
  • Pasta
  • Wheat-based products

Key functions

  • Strengthens dough via disulfide bonds
  • Improves dough handling and product quality

Potential Risks and Side Effects

  1. 01Generally recognized as safe (GRAS) by the FDA and EFSA when used in approved amounts
  2. 02Excessive consumption may cause amino acid metabolism imbalances, particularly in individuals with cystinuria

References

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