Papain is a natural enzyme found in the papaya fruit, which has a variety of applications in the food industry. It is commonly used as a meat tenderizer due to its ability to break down tough proteins. Papain can also be used as a clarifying agent in beer and other beverages to remove haze-causing proteins. Additionally, it can be used as a digestive aid in supplements and as a flavor enhancer in certain foods. However, it is important to note that papain may cause allergic reactions in some individuals and should be used with caution in food products.
