(a) Natamycin (CAS Reg. No. 7681-93-8), also known as pimaricin, is

a polyene macrolide antimycotic substance possessing an empirical

formula of C33H 47NO13 and a molecular

weight of 665.7.

(b) The additive shall conform to the following specifications:

Purity: 97 percent + 2 percent on an anhydrous basis.

Arsenic: Not more than 1 part per million.

Heavy metals (as Pb): Not more than 20 parts per million.

(c) The additive may be applied to the surface of cuts and slices of

cheese to inhibit mold spoilage with the following limitations:

(1) The additive may be applied as a dry mix containing the additive

and safe and suitable anticaking agents, resulting in no more than 20

parts per million of the additive in the finished product, or by dipping or

spraying, using an aqueous solution containing 200 to 300 parts per

million of the additive.

(2) The additive may be applied to the surface of those cuts and

slices of cheese(s) listed in part 133 of this chapter only if the

cheese standards provide for the use of ``safe and suitable'' mold-

inhibiting ingredients.

[47 FR 26823, June 22, 1982, as amended at 50 FR 49536, Dec. 3, 1985; 63

FR 66015, Dec. 1, 1998]