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OUR STORY

KiwiEnzyme.com Ltd, is a privately owned New Zealand company.The company was formed in 2012 following a request from an international ingredient company for an inexpensive product to service a wide range of uses for Actinidin in both the meat and health industries. Our proprietary Actininin extraction process, operating under the framework of New Zealand’s world-class food safety standards, ensures a supply of highly purified Actinidin product to manufacturers and processors world-wide.​

The directors of the company are Greg Stratton and Garrick Wells. Greg’s career roles have focussed on animal research in metabolic health, chemical formulation development and enzyme applications in the food industry. Garrick was the financial director of one of New Zealand’s largest construction companies, then chairman of a publicly listed company. For the last twenty years, he has established a reputation for extracting the best elements from fruits, seeds and leaves.

Actinidin - Proteolytic Enzyme

Proteases are widely distributed in the natural world, found in nearly all plants, animals and microorganisms. As a group, they are well known as protein degrading enzymes and were one of the first enzymes to be commercialised. They are commercially used in a vast range of industrial applications, including detergents, pharmaceuticals and food industries. Proteases are classified into 4 main types: serine proteases, cysteine proteases, Aspartyl proteases and Metalloproteases. All having differing action mechanisms and biological processes, hence a range of applications.

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Actinidin is the principal proteolytic enzyme found in varieties of kiwifruit. Classified as a cysteine protease, also known as thiol protease, it is part of the family of plant proteases that includes Papain (papaya), Bromelain (pineapple), Ficin (figs) and Zingibain (ginger).

 

While the cysteine proteases share similarities in their activities, differences in their protein structures and molecular weights result in differing activities towards specific protein substrates with varying pH and temperature optima. These structural differences also influence the thermal stability of the enzyme.

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As a plant-derived protease, extracted from a commercially grown fruit under a regulated environment, Actinidin offers a safe, reliable source of proteolytic activity for a range of food and therapeutic applications. With the narrow substrate specificity exhibited by Actinidin for many proteins, it is ideally suited to several specialist areas.

Actinidin Standardisation for Specific Applications

We have the ability to standardise the activity level of Actinidin to suit the needs of various industries, ensuring optimal performance and consistent results.

Health & Nutraceutical Sector: 

We offer Actinidin Active P200, formulated with higher enzyme activity to support digestive health and wellness products. this extract enhances protein digestion, promotes gut health, and contributes to overall wellness benefits. 

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​​Meat Industry:

Our KE P40 is specifically designed for meat tenderisation, with a tailored enzyme activity that delivers superior control over the tenderisation process. This extract ensures the ideal balance of tenderness without compromising meat texture, making it the ideal choice for injected, marinated, or sous-vide meats. 

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​These are examples of our standard enzyme formulations. If you have a specific application in mind, we can tailor the enzyme activity to meet your requirements. 

Health
Meat

Other Applications of Kiwifruit Powder

Expanding the Potential Beyond Food

Our versatile kiwifruit powder continues to find innovative applications across industries, highlighting its multifunctional benefits and natural appeal.

Plant Protein Functionality:

Our kiwifruit extract may help enhance the digestibility and functionality of plant-based proteins by breaking down complex protein structures into more bioavailable forms. This can improve texture, solubility, and absorption, making plant proteins more suitable for a wide range of food and beverage applications, including dairy alternatives, protein powders, meat substitutes, and nutritional supplements.

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Cosmetic Applications:

Some customers have explored the potential of our kiwifruit extract in skincare and beauty products. For example:

  • Anti-Aging: A natural source of antioxidants that may help protect and refresh the skin by supporting collagen and elastin proteins.

  • Acne Care: Contains actinidin, a natural enzyme that may help manage dead skin cells and daily buildup for a clearer complexion.

  • Exfoliation & Renewal: May help support the skin’s natural cell turnover by sloughing off dead skin cells and revealing fresh, revitalized layers beneath.

  • Hydration & Balance: As a fruit acid, it may contribute to maintaining a healthy pH balance in the skin.

  • Brightening: Rich in vitamin C, which may help reduce the appearance of dark spots caused by sun damage and aging.

  • Nourishment & Protection: Packed with vitamin E and antioxidants that may help defend against free radical damage while supporting skin health.

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Oral Care:​​

Actinidin has potential applications in toothpaste. Here’s why it might be considered:

  • Gentle Exfoliation: Actinidin helps break down proteins, which may aid in removing plaque and surface stains from teeth.

  • Natural Cleansing: Its enzymatic action could assist in breaking down food particles and debris in the mouth.

  • Freshness & Oral Health: Kiwifruit is rich in antioxidants and vitamin C, which may support gum health and overall oral hygiene.

Market Opportunities

The versatility and benefits of our kiwifruit powder open doors to diverse market segments. This unique ingredient addresses key consumer trends, providing opportunities for innovation in the following industries:

Health & Wellness Products

  • Digestive health supplements, functional beverages, and nutritional bars capitalise on the natural enzyme activity and prebiotic benefits of kiwifruit.

  • Products aimed at supporting gut health, reducing bloating, and enhancing protein digestion are in high demand.

 

Cosmetics & Personal Care

  • Anti-aging creams, acne treatments, and exfoliation products benefit from the antioxidants, vitamins, and minerals in kiwifruit.

  • Natural claims (e.g., non-GMO, clean-label) resonate with consumers seeking sustainable beauty solutions.

 

Meat Industry

  • Tenderiser for processed meats like salamis, jerkies, and ready-to-eat meals.

  • Opportunities to innovate in the fresh and prepared meat sector by incorporating kiwifruit powder for improved texture and quality.

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Plant-Based Food Innovations

  • Enhancing the functionality and palatability of plant proteins in meat alternatives and dairy-free products.

  • Addressing the growing demand for clean-label plant-based foods.

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Beverages

  • Inclusion in green drinks, smoothies, and digestion-support beverages.

  • Promotes consumer trust with its natural and nutrient-rich profile.

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Emerging Opportunities

  • Expansion into sectors like baby food, pet food, and natural toothpaste ingredients.

  • Custom enzyme activity formulations tailored to unique applications, such as low-sugar or premium food products.

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