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Safety of Alkaline Protease

According to the U.S. National Library of Medicine, alkaline protease is a type of enzyme commonly used in detergents (see Reference 2). Although alkaline protease may be present in some seemingly harmless household products, it presents a few hazards that require precautions.

  1. Eyes

    • According to neogen.com, alkaline protease is an eye irritant. If you accidentally rub some in your eyes, flush them out with water for 15 minutes. Call your doctor if your condition does not improve (see Reference 1).

    Ingestion

    • Seek emergency medical attention immediately if you swallow products with alkaline protease (see Reference 1).

    Respiratory System

    • According to neogen.com, prolonged exposure to alkaline protease can irritate your respiratory system. Take care in cleaning alkaline protease spills. Unconsciousness can occur in severe cases. Call emergency 911 if you witness such an incident and be sure the victim is placed in an area with ample oxygen (see Reference 1).

    Skin

    • Wear gloves if you have to clean up an alkaline protease spill. Alkaline protease can irritate your skin in large amounts, according to neogen.com. Wash your skin for 15 minutes and call your doctor (see Reference 1).

    Prevention/Solution

    • Neogen.com recommends that you do not reuse containers that previously had alkaline protease, as they may contain residue. To avoid a poisonous reactoin, do not mix alkaline protease with acidic materials. Store containers in cool, dry areas (see Reference 1).

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