ABSTRACT
Food from plant origin is a rich source of beneficial components, such as phytochemicals, antioxidants, plant hormones, and enzymes. This study is based on the view point of various sources of proteases specifically plant-derived proteases and their potential applications. Proteases play an important role in different industries, particularly in food, pharmaceuticals, digestive diseases, and detergent industries, diagnostic and fine chemical industries. Interest has been growing in plant proteases that are natural, eco-friendly and have commercial importance as compared with animal or microbial proteases. It is clear that these enzymes, as compared to other sources can break more fat, protein, and carbohydrate in the broader range of pH and temperature. Protease as coagulating enzyme in dairy industry is considered a significant source for the preparation of cheese. In addition to this, an overview on the application of proteases in meat tenderizing, bread making, beverage (as clarifying agent), and leather industry is also addressed briefly.
