Protease: Properties, Uses & Applications - A Comprehensive Guide

Protease, also known as proteolytic enzymes or proteinases, are enzymes that break down protein into amino acids so the body can use them. Protease can also destroy viruses and bacteria, because they are proteins. There are also commercial uses for protease.

Rennet

• Rennet is a type of protease originating from the fourth stomach of calves. Rennet is used in the process of making cheese from milk.

Aging

• Meat that is aged is done so by the actions of the endogenous proteases inside. They break down the protein to tenderize the meat and change its flavor. Aged meat is a popular and expensive food, particularly in steakhouses.

Papain

• Papain is a protease found in papaya fruit that is used during the chilling process of beer-making.

Detergents

• Most laundry and dish detergents contain proteases to break down proteins in stains and to eliminate food residue from dishes.

Tanning

• In curing leather, protease is used to remove excess proteins from the hide and to break down the tough texture for easier processing.