Lysozyme belongs to a group of enzymes that are known as glycoside hydrolases. It is found in animal tissues, organs, serum as well as in tears, nasal secretions, cervical mucus, and the white of avian eggs. Lysozyme breaks the carbonhydrate chains of the bacterial skin, destroying the structural integrity of the cell wall. Thereby, it has antibacterial properties and was one of the first antibiotics studied by Sir Fleming, the discover of penicillin.
Lysozyme is used either alone or in combination with other synergic compounds as an excellent preservative against many food spoiling microorganisms for fruits & vegetables, tofu & bean curd, seafood & meats, wines & sakes. Organic wines use it to reduce sulfites. It is used in non-pasteurized beer. It has been added to baby formula (to aid digestibility) and gastrointestinal treatments for the elderly. Lysozyme is used in skin care, to cure and prevent acne and bed sores, as well as in optical, dental, and oral conditions.