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Bromelain & Serrapeptase: Enzymatic Innovation in Sports Recovery

From niche nutraceuticals to mainstream sports recovery stacks, proteolytic enzymes like bromelain and serrapeptase are gaining traction across the €120M EU enzymatic recovery market.
While their digestive benefits are well-known, their role in muscle repair, mobility support, and post-training recovery is driving a wave of new formulations in powders, sachets, capsules, and ready-to-drink (RTD) blends.
At BF-EssE, we specialize in developing EFSA-compliant, clean-label enzyme supplements that balance performance efficacy with regulatory and sensory stability — ensuring your product delivers in both the lab and the market.
Why Enzymes in Sports Recovery?

Proteolytic enzymes support the breakdown of protein structures in the body — not only in the gut, but also systemically, where they may influence recovery processes.
Bromelain (from Ananas comosus stem) and serrapeptase (originally derived from Serratia marcescens) are two of the most commercially recognized options for sports applications.
  • Bromelain – popular for its protease activity and compatibility with plant-based and clean-label products.
  • Serrapeptase – known for high-activity proteolysis and niche adoption in joint and mobility supplements.
Unlike amino acid or protein supplementation, these enzymes are positioned for functional recovery — appealing to athletes who want targeted post-training support without stimulants or heavy macronutrient loads.
Key Technical Considerations for CMOs
1. Enzyme Activity & StandardizationBromelain is typically standardized in GDU (gelatin digesting units) or MCU (milk clotting units) per gram.
  • Serrapeptase is measured in SPU (serrapeptase units).
  • BF-EssE sources verified, stable enzyme materials and tests with HPLC & activity assays to ensure label claim compliance throughout shelf life.
2. Stability in Different FormatsCapsules – optimal for enzyme activity preservation; moisture and pH protection are critical.
  • Sachets / Powders – require low-moisture excipients; plant fibers can act as carriers.
  • RTDs – most challenging due to liquid environment; microencapsulation or dual-chamber systems recommended.
  • We run accelerated stability testing at 40°C / 75% RH to predict 24–36 month shelf life.
3. Absorption & Co-FormulantsBromelain may pair well with curcumin or quercetin for synergistic appeal in clean-label blends.
  • Serrapeptase is often positioned with magnesium or omega-3 for recovery and mobility stacks.
  • pH-sensitive enzymes may require enteric-coated capsules for optimal delivery.

EU Regulatory & Clean-Label Strategy

Regulatory Framework
No specific EFSA health claim is approved for “muscle repair” — positioning must focus on structure-function or nutrient content claims.
  • Both bromelain and serrapeptase are permitted in supplements, but origin and source must be declared.
  • “Enzyme blend” must list each enzyme and its activity unit.
Clean-Label Expectations
EU consumers — especially in Germany, Benelux, and the Nordics — look for:
  • Vegan & plant-based sourcing (especially for bromelain)
  • No artificial colors, flavors, or preservatives
  • Non-GMO & allergen-free excipients
  • Sustainable packaging (mono-material sachets, PCR PET bottles)

Formats We Offer at BF-EssE

We can develop bromelain and serrapeptase supplements in:
  • Capsules – vegan, enteric-coated, or standard
  • Single-dose sachets – flavored or unflavored blends
  • Powder jars (50–500g) – for bulk B2B or direct-to-consumer products
  • Pouch bags – resealable, eco-friendly options
  • Specialty delivery – dual-chamber sachets, stick packs with phase separation
Flavors available for enzyme blends include:
  • Mild fruit (peach, pineapple, hibiscus)
  • Functional herbal (green tea, blackcurrant)
  • Neutral, unflavored options for stack integration.

Why Partner with BF-EssE for Enzyme Recovery Products

  • ISO 9001 / ISO 22000 / HACCP certified production
  • Expertise in enzyme stability engineering
  • EFSA-aligned formulation & label review
  • Clean-label, vegan, and allergen-free development capability
  • Small or large batch production with export-ready packaging
  • We bridge science, compliance, and market demand — so your enzyme product isn’t just shelf-stable, but also shelf-successful.

Whether your audience is elite athletes, active lifestyle consumers, or recovery-focused wellness buyers, BF-EssE delivers B2B-ready enzyme solutions that meet EU compliance and consumer expectations.

FAQ - Bromelain & Serrapeptase for Muscle Repair