What is bromelain?
Bromelain is a complex of proteolytic (protein-digesting) enzymes obtained from the stems and fruit of the pineapple plant (Ananas comosus). Although the pineapple fruit also contains bromelain, most supplement-grade bromelain comes from pineapple stems, where its concentration is higher.
Bromelain has been used traditionally for centuries — in Central and South America, pineapple was valued as a digestive aid. Today, bromelain is available as a concentrated food supplement.
Bromelain activity is measured in GDU (gelatin dissolving units) or MCU (milk clotting units), which indicate the enzyme's ability to break down proteins.
How does bromelain work?
Bromelain is an enzyme belonging to the cysteine protease family that cleaves protein molecules at peptide bonds. This means bromelain helps break down large proteins into smaller fragments.
In the context of digestion, bromelain supplements the body's own proteolytic enzymes (such as pepsin and trypsin). This may be particularly useful in situations where the body's own enzyme production is reduced.
Researchers have also studied bromelain's absorption from the digestive tract. Some studies suggest that bromelain may be partially absorbed intact, which is unusual for enzymes (Castell et al., 1997).
Evidence and research
Important note: The European Food Safety Authority (EFSA) has not approved specific health claims for bromelain supplements. Claims regarding digestion, inflammation and immunity have not received approval.
What the scientific literature shows:
- Bromelain is a well-characterised proteolytic enzyme that breaks down proteins in in vitro conditions (Pavan et al., 2012)
- In some European countries (e.g., Germany), bromelain has been traditionally used for digestive support (Maurer, 2001)
- Studies have examined bromelain's role in athlete recovery and injury healing (Walker et al., 2002)
- Bromelain's anti-inflammatory properties have been studied in preclinical models (Brien et al., 2004)
- Clinical trial results have been inconsistent, partly due to differences in dosages and formulations
Since there are no approved EFSA claims, we cannot state that bromelain treats, prevents or alleviates any disease or condition.
How to take bromelain
Bromelain dosing depends on the intended purpose:
- For digestive support — typically taken with meals to assist with protein breakdown
- For other purposes — studies have often used doses on an empty stomach, between meals
Typical dosages in the literature have been 200–2000 mg per day (or 500–2000 GDU per day).
Important notes:
- Bromelain activity is temperature-sensitive — avoid high temperatures
- Store supplements in a cool, dry place
- Liquid bromelain can also be used as a meat tenderiser (culinary use)
Who might benefit from bromelain?
- People seeking digestive support — bromelain is a proteolytic enzyme that breaks down proteins
- Athletes and active individuals — bromelain has been studied in the context of recovery
- Older adults — digestive enzyme production may decrease with age
- People who eat a high-protein diet — additional proteolytic enzyme may support protein breakdown
Warning: Bromelain may affect blood clotting. Do not use before surgery or alongside blood-thinning medications without consulting your doctor. Those with pineapple allergy should also avoid bromelain.
Frequently asked questions
Is eating pineapple enough?
Pineapple fruit contains bromelain but at much lower concentrations than supplements made from pineapple stems. Pineapple is still a healthy fruit due to its vitamin C and fibre content.
Can bromelain be taken with food?
For digestive support, bromelain is taken with meals. For other purposes, studies have used it between meals.
Is bromelain suitable for vegetarians?
Yes, bromelain is plant-derived (from pineapple) and is suitable for both vegetarians and vegans.
Does bromelain lose its effect when heated?
Yes, enzymes are protein molecules that denature at high temperatures. Canned and pasteurised pineapple juice does not contain active bromelain.
Is bromelain suitable for daily use?
Bromelain has been used for several months in studies. However, long-term safety data are limited. Consult your doctor about prolonged use.
References
1. Pavan R, Jain S, Shraddha, Kumar A. (2012). Properties and therapeutic application of bromelain: A review. Biotechnology Research International, 2012, 976203.
2. Maurer HR. (2001). Bromelain: biochemistry, pharmacology and medical use. Cellular and Molecular Life Sciences, 58(9), 1234–1245.
3. Walker AF, Bundy R, Hicks SM, Middleton RW. (2002). Bromelain reduces mild acute knee pain and improves well-being in a dose-dependent fashion in an open study of otherwise healthy adults. Phytomedicine, 9(8), 681–686.
4. Brien S, Lewith G, Walker A, Hicks SM, Middleton D. (2004). Bromelain as a treatment for osteoarthritis: A review of clinical studies. Evidence-Based Complementary and Alternative Medicine, 1(3), 251–257.
5. Castell JV, Friedrich G, Kuhn CS, Poppe GE. (1997). Intestinal absorption of undegraded proteins in men: presence of bromelain in plasma after oral intake. American Journal of Physiology, 273(1), G139–G146.
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Disclaimer
A food supplement is not a substitute for a varied and balanced diet and a healthy lifestyle.
