Digestive Enzyme
Pepsin
Also known as: Pepsin, Pepsin (Porcine), Porcine Pepsin, Pepsin A
Digestive enzyme derived from porcine stomach lining that breaks down proteins in acidic environments. Works synergistically with hydrochloric acid for protein digestion.
Last reviewed June 2026 · Evidence graded from peer-reviewed research, not editorial opinion. Educational only — not medical advice.
Every Pepsin product we have scored
| # | Product | Score | Per serving |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Nutricost Betaine HCI + Pepsin Capsules | 88 A | $0.08 |
| 2 | Thorne Betaine HCL & Pepsin | 88 A | $0.42 |
| 3 | Thorne Multi Enzyme | 87 A | $0.56 |
| 4 | Thorne Advanced Digestive Enzymes | 84 A- | $0.62 |
| 5 | Pure Encapsulations Betaine HCl Pepsin | 83 A- | $0.21 |
| 6 | Integrative Therapeutics Betaine HCl | 80 A- | $0.37 |
| 7 | Bluebonnet Nutrition BETAINE HCI & PEPSIN DIGESTIVE ENZYME | 80 A- | $0.37 |
| 8 | Vital Nutrients Betaine HCl Pepsin Gentian Root Extract | 74 B+ | $0.36 |
| 9 | Bluebonnet Nutrition POWER-ZYMES DIGESTIVE ENZYME | 71 B | $0.47 |
Scored on dose accuracy, form, label transparency and third-party testing. Per-serving cost is list price divided by servings per container. No brand pays to be listed or ranked.
Common questions
How much Pepsin should I take?
The typical range is 20-250 mg with meals. As needed with meals
When should I take Pepsin?
With protein-containing meals. Yes - take at start of meal.
Which form of Pepsin is best?
Porcine-derived — Most common source, high activity. Other forms in the catalog: 1:10,000 or 1:3000.
Is Pepsin safe?
Commonly reported: Rare at normal doses. Serious warnings: Avoid with peptic ulcers, May irritate oral mucosa if capsule opened. No significant concerns
Which Pepsin supplement scores highest?
Nutricost Betaine HCI + Pepsin Capsules, at 88/100. Scored on dose accuracy, form, label transparency and third-party testing — no brand pays to be listed or ranked.
Primary uses
- Protein digestion support
- Digestive enzyme supplementation
- Hypochlorhydria support
How it works
- Cleaves peptide bonds in proteins
- Works optimally in acidic pH (1.5-2.5)
- Activated by hydrochloric acid
Dosage
- Typical range
- 20-250 mg with meals
- Timing
- With protein-containing meals
- With food
- Yes - take at start of meal
- Duration
- As needed with meals
- Special populations
- Often combined with Betaine HCl
Forms
- Porcine-derived
- 1:10,000 or 1:3000
Safety
Common side effects
- Rare at normal doses
Contraindications
- Active peptic ulcer
- Gastritis
- Pork allergy
Products containing Pepsin
Top-scoring supplements in our catalog that list Pepsin on the label. Each product is graded on Formulate's ingredient-level rubric — dose accuracy, form, transparency, and third-party testing.
Evidence notes
Well-established digestive enzyme; moderate evidence for protein digestion support
Grade B: Some human trials support key claims; further confirmation needed.
Related in Digestive Enzyme
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Medical disclaimer. This page is educational and does not replace advice from a qualified healthcare provider. Individual needs and risks vary — consult a professional before starting, stopping, or combining supplements, especially if you are pregnant or nursing, taking medication, or managing a health condition.