Ingredient · E920

L-cysteine

Source
Unknown
Not yet classified by editors
Allergen
No
Role in food
Manufacturers add L-cysteine primarily as a dough conditioner in baked goods. It helps to …

What is L-cysteine?

L-cysteine is an amino acid, which is a building block of proteins. It can be produced through fermentation, chemical synthesis, or by breaking down animal proteins like poultry feathers or human hair.

Is L-cysteine a major allergen?

Not a major allergen.

What is L-cysteine used for?

Manufacturers add L-cysteine primarily as a dough conditioner in baked goods.

Is L-cysteine safe?

The FDA considers L-cysteine to be generally recognized as safe (GRAS) when used as a dough conditioner.

Why it's used

Manufacturers add L-cysteine primarily as a dough conditioner in baked goods. It helps to relax dough, making it more elastic and easier to process, which can reduce mixing times and improve the texture of products like pizza crusts and breads.

Health notes

The FDA considers L-cysteine to be generally recognized as safe (GRAS) when used as a dough conditioner. JECFA has evaluated L-cysteine and determined that it is not appropriate to set a numerical acceptable daily intake (ADI not specified) when used as a flour treatment agent. EFSA has also evaluated L-cysteine and concluded it is safe for its approved uses. There are no notable health controversies regarding L-cysteine itself, though some consumers may have concerns about its source if derived from animal products.

Allergen info

Not a major allergen.

Foods that contain L-cysteine

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Auto-generated content. This description was generated automatically and is pending editorial review. Inaccuracies are possible. Found a mistake? Contact us.

Last updated: September 28, 2026

Note: This site presents label data from USDA FoodData Central for general information. It is not medical advice. Check the package label; formulations change.