Describe how pectinase is used in the production of fruit juice, and explain why its use is beneficial to manufacturers.

Pectinase is an enzyme that hydrolyses pectin, a polysaccharide that forms part of the plant cell wall.

In fruit juice production, pectinase is added to the fruit mash. The enzyme breaks down the pectin, weakening the cell walls and allowing the juice to flow out of the cells.

This increases the amount of juice that can be extracted from the same quantity of fruit, giving manufacturers a higher yield and a clearer product.

The higher yield means lower production costs and a more efficient use of raw materials, which is why manufacturers favour pectinase.