Ingredient

Microbial

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Source
Not animal-derived
Allergen
No
Role in food
Manufacturers use microbial ingredients for various functions, including as enzymes for food processing (like …

What it is

Microbial ingredients are derived from microorganisms like bacteria, yeast, or fungi. These can be whole cells, extracts, or compounds produced by the microbes. They are often grown in controlled environments using fermentation processes.

Why it's used

Manufacturers use microbial ingredients for various functions, including as enzymes for food processing (like in cheese making), probiotics for gut health benefits, or as sources of specific flavors and textures. They are found in products like dairy, baked goods, and fermented foods.

Health notes

Many microbial ingredients, such as those used in yogurt or cheese production, are considered safe (GRAS) by the FDA. Probiotic strains are often studied for their potential benefits to gut health, though research is ongoing. International bodies like JECFA and EFSA have evaluated various microbial-derived substances. Evidence regarding specific health effects at typical consumption levels is generally positive or neutral, with no widespread controversies.

Allergen info

Microbial ingredients themselves are not derived from the 9 FDA major allergens. However, if a microbial ingredient is used in a food product that also contains allergens (like dairy in yogurt), cross-contamination or shared processing equipment could be a concern. Not a source of gluten.

Products containing Microbial

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Bagel Josef's Cinnamon Raisin Bagel, With Sprouted Wheat TRADER JOE'S Bagel Josef's Cinnamon Raisin Bagel, With Sprouted Wheat Breads & Buns 259kcal 10.6Protein 1.2Fat 52.9Carbs GOOD & GATHER Classic Reduced Fat Mild Cheddar Cheese, Classic Mild Cheddar Cheese 316kcal 26.3Protein 21.1Fat 5.3Carbs Seasoned Taco Blend Fine Cut A Blend Of Cheddar & Monterey Jack Cheeses With Taco Seasonings, Seasoned Taco Blend Target Stores Seasoned Taco Blend Fine Cut A Blend Of Cheddar & Monterey Jack Cheeses With Taco Seasonings, Seasoned Taco Blend Cheese High in saturated fat — 25% DV per serving 393kcal 21.4Protein 28.6Fat 7.1Carbs Saputo Cheese USA Inc. Soft Ripened Truffle Goat Cheese Cheese High in saturated fat — 20% DV per serving 250kcal 14.3Protein 21.4Fat 3.6Carbs Sour Cream Wegmans Food Markets, Inc. Sour Cream Cream 200kcal 3.3Protein 20Fat 6.7Carbs JH BIOTECH, INC. Organic Arrabiata Pasta Sauce Prepared Pasta & Pizza Sauces High in sodium — 21% DV per serving 44kcal 1.8Protein 0.9Fat 7.1Carbs Target Stores Mozzarella Cheese Cheese 286kcal 25Protein 21.4Fat 7.1Carbs Target Stores Sharp Cheddar Cheese Cheese High in saturated fat — 25% DV per serving 393kcal 21.4Protein 32.1Fat 3.6Carbs Target Stores Reduced Fat Mozzarella Shredded Cheese Cheese 250kcal 28.6Protein 14.3Fat 7.1Carbs Target Stores Mozzarella Shredded Cheese Cheese 286kcal 21.4Protein 21.4Fat 7.1Carbs Target Stores Finely Shredded Cheddar Jack Cheese Cheese High in saturated fat — 25% DV per serving 393kcal 21.4Protein 32.1Fat 3.6Carbs Target Stores Monterey Jack Cheese Cheese High in saturated fat — 25% DV per serving 357kcal 25Protein 28.6Fat 0Carbs
Salt (287 products) Enzymes (284 products) Annatto (129 products) Pasteurized Milk (123 products) Vegetable Color (103 products) Cheese Culture (92 products) Cultured Pasteurized Milk (70 products) Potato Starch (68 products) Cheese Cultures (67 products) Natamycin (65 products)

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.