Insulin

Insulin is a hormone naturally produced by the pancreas that helps regulate blood sugar. In food production, it is typically derived from yeast or bacteria that have been genetically engineered to produce human insulin. This process allows for a consistent and safe supply of the hormone.

Insulin is not typically added to foods as an ingredient for its functional properties like sweetness or preservation. Its primary role is in managing diabetes, where it is administered as a medication, not consumed as a food additive. Therefore, it is not commonly found in packaged foods for general consumption.

Insulin is a medication used to manage diabetes and is not approved by the FDA as a food additive. It is not generally recognized as safe (GRAS) for consumption in food products. The FDA regulates insulin as a drug, and its use in food would be considered off-label and potentially harmful. JECFA and EFSA have not evaluated insulin as a food additive.