Alpha amylase (CAS 9000-85-5) is a crucial enzyme that catalyzes the hydrolysis of starch molecules into glucose polymers and maltose. This enzyme belongs to the class of hydrolases and plays an essential role in various industrial processes. Its ability to break down complex carbohydrates makes it invaluable across multiple sectors, from food and beverage production to pharmaceutical applications.

What is Alpha Amylase?

Alpha amylase (EC 3.2.1.1) is an enzyme that hydrolyzes alpha-1,4-glycosidic bonds in starch and other polysaccharides, producing dextrins, maltose, and glucose. Unlike beta-amylase, which cleaves from the non-reducing end, alpha-amylase can attack internal bonds within the starch molecule, making it particularly effective for starch liquefaction.

This enzyme is produced by various sources including bacteria (particularly Bacillus species), fungi (Aspergillus niger), and pancreatic sources. Microbial alpha-amylases are preferred for industrial applications due to their superior stability, cost-effectiveness, and consistent production capabilities.

What Are the Benefits?

High Starch Hydrolysis Efficiency

Alpha amylase efficiently breaks down large starch molecules into smaller, more manageable sugars. This rapid liquefaction process significantly reduces processing time and energy costs in industrial applications.

Temperature and pH Stability

Modern microbial alpha-amylases exhibit remarkable stability across a wide range of temperatures and pH levels. Bacillus-derived enzymes particularly stand out for their thermostable properties, functioning optimally at temperatures ranging from 50°C to 100°C.

Cost-Effective Production

Using microorganisms for alpha-amylase production enables economical bulk manufacturing. The scalability of microbial fermentation processes makes it a cost-effective solution for large-scale industrial operations.

Versatility in Applications

The enzyme’s versatility allows it to function in diverse industries including food processing, detergents, textiles, paper manufacturing, pharmaceuticals, and biofuel production.

What Are the Uses?

Alpha amylase has extensive industrial applications:

• Food Industry: Used in bread-making to improve dough handling and volume, in HFCS production, brewing, and as a food-grade enzyme for starch conversion
• Detergent Industry: Incorporated into laundry detergents for effective starch stain removal
• Textile Industry: Applied in desizing processes to remove starch from fabrics
• Paper Industry: Used in paper manufacturing for starch modification
• Den farmaceutiske industri: Employed in digestive enzyme supplements and as an API
• Biofuel Industry: Critical in bioethanol production for starch saccharification
• Bioremediation: Emerging applications in environmental cleanup

Safety and Side Effects

Alpha amylase has been extensively studied for safety. The enzyme has been used in industrial food processing since 1989, with food-grade versions in use since 1998.

Regulatory bodies including the FDA and EFSA have evaluated alpha-amylase safety:

• FDA has granted GRAS (Generally Recognized As Safe) status to alpha-amylase from various sources
• EFSA evaluations have shown no adverse effects in oral toxicity studies
• The enzyme is classified as non-toxic and non-genotoxic

However, individuals with known allergies to specific enzyme sources (such as Aspergillus-derived enzymes) should exercise caution. Some studies have reported rare cases of occupational asthma in individuals with prolonged exposure to enzyme powders.

Chemical Specifications

Property	Værdi
CAS-nummer	9000-85-5
EC Number	3.2.1.1
Molekylvægt	~51-54 kDa (porcine pancreatic)
Optimum pH	6.0-7.0 (varies by source)
Optimum Temperature	50-70°C (varies by source)
Source	Bacterial, Fungal, Pancreatic

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the difference between alpha and beta amylase?

Alpha-amylase cleaves internal α-1,4-glycosidic bonds randomly, producing dextrins and maltose. Beta-amylase attacks from the non-reducing ends, producing maltose exclusively. Alpha-amylase is more effective for complete starch liquefaction.

Is alpha amylase safe for consumption?

Yes, alpha amylase is FDA-approved and considered safe for consumption. It has been used in food processing for decades and is classified as GRAS (Generally Recognized As Safe).

What industries use alpha amylase?

Alpha amylase is used in food and beverage, detergent, textile, paper, pharmaceutical, and biofuel industries.

What is the optimal storage condition for alpha amylase?

Alpha amylase should be stored in a cool, dry place at 2-8°C for liquid formulations. Powder forms are typically more stable and can be stored at room temperature.

Why Choose Our Alpha Amylase?

At Longchang Chemical, we supply high-quality alpha amylase (CAS 9000-85-5) meeting international standards. Our product features:

• Consistent enzyme activity and purity
• Competitive pricing for bulk orders
• Technical support and documentation (MSDS, COA)
• Reliable supply and flexible packaging options
• Global shipping available

Contact us today to request a quote for your industrial enzyme requirements.

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