Uses of Enzymes in the Home and in Industry

Enzymes in the Home Biological Washing Powders/ Detergents. What are these? What are non biological detergents? Which type would be better at removing stains at low temperatures? Why? Why do biological detergents often contain proteases and lipases? List some of the reasons why people may chose either biological or non biological detergents. (Page 174 Nelson may help)

Enzymes in Industry 3 main enzymes used in industry are: Proteases – to pre-digest the protein in some baby foods. Carbohydrases – to convert starch into sugar syrup, used in the manufacturing of lots of foodstuffs. Isomerase – used to convert glucose syrup into fructose syrup, which is sweeter and therefore can be used in smaller quantities Ideal for use in ‘slimming foods’.

Enzymes in Industry Advantages and Disadvantages Using enzymes for industrial processes allows reactions to be catalysed at lower temperatures and pressures that would normally be needed, hence making the process less energy requiring and cheaper than it would otherwise be. Many enzymes are costly to produce Most enzymes are denatured at high temperatures