zein

protein

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July 15, 2026

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Zein is a protein derived from corn. It is notable for its lack of the essential amino acids lysine and tryptophan. Due to these properties, zein finds applications in the manufacturing of various products, including textile fibers, plastics, printing inks, coatings, adhesives, and sizes. The name "zein" originates from Zea, the genus for corn, and it was first documented in 1820. Zeatin, a related term, refers to a plant hormone (cytokinin) also first isolated from corn endosperm.12

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zein
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cereal processing
Corn
…ordinary corn is the prolamin zein, constituting half of the total protein. On hydrolysis zein yields only very small amounts of tryptophan or lysine, making it low in biological value. The proteins of corn, like those of most cereals other than wheat, do not provide an elastic gluten.
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…ordinary corn is the prolamin zein, constituting half of the total protein. On hydrolysis zein yields only very small amounts of tryptophan or lysine, making it low in biological value. The proteins of corn, like those of most cereals other than wheat, do not provide an elastic gluten.
Read More