Natamycin

International Numbering System (INS) for Food Additives: 235
Food additives Europe numbers: E235 

Natamycin is an antifungal medication used to treat a variety of fungal infections. It is usually prescribed in the form of an eye drop, cream, or ointment. Natamycin works by stopping the growth of the fungus. It is commonly used to treat fungal infections of the eye, such as blepharitis, conjunctivitis, and keratitis. It may also be used to treat some forms of meningitis, as well as other fungal infections of the skin, nails, and mucous membranes.

Natamycin is a medication that comes in two main forms:

• Antifungal medication: Used to treat fungal eye infections, including infections of the eyelids (blepharitis), conjunctiva (the clear tissue covering the white part of the eye), and cornea (the clear dome at the front of the eye) [1, 2]. It comes as eye drops for topical application.
• Food preservative: Used in the food industry to prevent mold and yeast growth in various food products [3, 4].

Here's a breakdown of its key points:

Antifungal Medication (Eye Drops):

• Function: Natamycin works by disrupting the cell membrane of fungi, effectively killing them [2].
• Benefits: It's a safe and effective treatment for various fungal eye infections [2].
• Administration: Typically applied as eye drops, one or two drops several times a day, following the doctor's instructions [2].

Food Preservative:

• Function: Natamycin inhibits the growth of mold and yeast in a variety of food products, extending shelf life and reducing spoilage [3, 4].
• Safety: Generally recognized as safe (GRAS) by the FDA for use in food applications [4].
• Applications: Found in various foods like cheese, yogurt, sausages, beverages, and some fruits [3, 4].

Important to Remember:

• Dosage and use: Always follow your doctor's instructions regarding dosage and frequency when using Natamycin eye drops.
• Fungal vs. bacterial eye infections: Natamycin is only effective against fungal infections, not bacterial eye infections.
• Consult a doctor: If you experience any eye symptoms, consult a doctor for proper diagnosis and treatment.
• Food applications: While safe for consumption in foods, it's not a medicinal form and shouldn't be taken internally.