Leucidal® Liquid - ECOCert Approved for use in Certified Organic products

Leucidal® Liquid is a new, natural preservative from Active Micro Technologies combining the current trends for alternative preservative systems and peptide technology.  Derived from radishes fermented with Leuconostoc kimchii, a lactic acid bacteria that has traditionally been used to make kimchi, this product consists of an isolated peptide that is secreted from the bacteria during the fermentation process that has been shown to have antimicrobial benefits.  Leucidal® Liquid is accepted by ECOCERT as a preservative in certified organic cosmetics. 

As with all biological materials some attention must be paid to the conditions under which Leucidal® Liquid can be used. Preliminary investigation shows that the material is stable with regard to temperature up to 60°C (140°F). Testing shows that the peptide remains active under both acidic and basic conditions, but there is a loss of activity at pH of 9.

For many cosmetic formulations Leucidal® Liquid can function as a natural alternative to synthetic preservatives.  It may also be useful as a topical antimicrobial when addressing problem skin or scalp conditions.  While it has only a slight odor, it will impart some color to clear cosmetic products, although it is still possible to formulate "white" emulsions.

Challenge testing reveals that 2% Leucidal Liquid in a cream base is able to successfully inhibit microbial growth. Samples were inoculated with S. aureus, E. coli, P. aeruginosa, C. albicans, A. niger, K. pneumoniae, B. cepacia.  Following 28 days of incubation samples were then re-inoculated for an additional 28 days. Minimum Inhibitory Concentrations (MIC) were determined using a standard agar dilution method. A variety of bacteria and fungus were tested to evaluate the ability of Leucidal® Liquid to protect against microbial contamination. The results indicate that Leucidal® Liquid can provide effective protection for certain cosmetic systems.

The choice of preservatives for personal care formulations should be carefully considered. This is especially true when using natural antimicrobials and or other “mild” antimicrobials.  We recommend that every formula undergo stability and microbial testing to ensure adequate preservation.

Key Benefits

• Water soluble
• Naturally derived
• Virtually odorless
• Heat stable to at 60°C (140°F)
• Broad spectrum of antibacterial activity
• Compatible with a wide range of cosmetic ingredients.
• Very mild, with low to no irritation potential
• ECOCert Approved for use in ECOCert Certified Organic products

Recommended Usage Level: 0.2% - 2.0%
pH (as supplied): 4.0 - 6.0
Appearance: Clear to slightly hazy yellow to light amber liquid
Solubility: Soluble in water, glycerin and propylene glycol, immiscible with oils.
Shelf Life: 12 months
Storage and Use: Sealed container away from sunlight. Do not freeze, store at or near room temperature. Mix well prior to use; may sediment on standing.

INCI: Leuconostoc/Radish Root Ferment Filtrate