Glucose Oxidase

Enzyme

What is it

Glucose oxidase is an enzyme commonly produced by Aspergillus niger that converts glucose into gluconic acid and hydrogen peroxide. It is used in food processing, biosensors, and some supplements as an antimicrobial enzyme.

Evidence for 1 use

AI-assisted evidence assessment — talk to your doctor before relying on any single supplement.

Antimicrobial / food preservation

Good Evidence

Well-established role in food preservation and oral antimicrobial systems through hydrogen peroxide generation.

How it works

Glucose oxidase catalyzes the oxidation of beta-D-glucose to D-glucono-1,5-lactone (which hydrolyzes to gluconic acid) and hydrogen peroxide. The hydrogen peroxide generated provides antimicrobial activity against bacteria and fungi. In food, glucose oxidase removes oxygen and trace glucose for preservation; in dental and oral care products it supports the salivary peroxidase antimicrobial system. In supplements it is sometimes included as an oral or topical antimicrobial enzyme.

Dosage

No nutritional dose. Activity is measured in units; specific dosing depends on the product purpose.

When and how to take it

Depends on product. In oral health products, used at the site of action.

1 commercial form

Compare the main delivery options and what they’re best suited for.

Glucose oxidase (Aspergillus niger)

Standard commercial form.

Active locally, not systemic.

Safety

Generally regarded as safe in food applications. Allergic reactions to mold-derived enzymes are possible in people with mold allergies.

Who should be cautious

People with Aspergillus or mold allergies should avoid fungal-derived enzymes. No specific pregnancy concerns at typical food/supplement amounts.

Interactions

No significant systemic interactions reported.

Frequently asked questions

Is glucose oxidase safe?⌄

Yes. It is widely used in food and has a long safety record. People with mold allergies may rarely react.

What does it do in toothpaste?⌄

It enhances the natural salivary peroxidase antimicrobial system.

References

Glucose Oxidase on Wikidata — Wikidata link

Glucose Oxidase on NIH DSLD (US supplement label database) — NIH Dietary Supplement Label Database link

Research on Glucose Oxidase (PubMed search) — PubMed link

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Evidence-based·How we grade evidence

Disclaimer: These statements have not been evaluated by the FDA. This page is educational, not a substitute for personalized medical advice. Evidence grades are AI-assisted assessments — talk to your doctor before starting any new supplement, especially if you’re pregnant, breastfeeding, on medications, or managing a chronic condition.