Tag: Starch functions

In a 2019 study published in the journal *Polymers*, starch was cited as a cornerstone of the global food industry due to its diverse functional properties. But beyond its use as a common ingredient, what are the five functions of starch and why are they so critical for both industrial and biological processes?

Starch, a fundamental carbohydrate found in most plants, is the primary source of energy for humans globally, providing over half of the daily energy intake for more than 60% of the world's population. Grasping the diverse functions of starch is essential not only for developing nutritious foods but also for innovations across numerous industries.

According to food science research, starch is one of the most widely used ingredients in processed foods due to its technological versatility and cost-efficiency. The question of why is starch added to food is multifaceted, covering applications that range from home cooking techniques to large-scale industrial manufacturing.