As a nutritional supplement in food additives, leucine has the following main functions:
1. Provide essential amino acids: Leucine is one of the essential amino acids for the human body and is essential for maintaining normal physiological functions of the human body. As a food additive, leucine can supplement essential amino acids lacking in food and help meet the body's demand for protein.
2. Promote protein synthesis: Leucine is an important component of protein synthesis and participates in regulating the protein synthesis process in the body. By adding leucine to food, it can promote protein synthesis in the body and help maintain the health and growth of muscle tissue.
3. Enhance nutritional value: The addition of leucine can improve the nutritional value of food and increase the content of essential amino acids in food, making it more comprehensive and balanced. This is particularly important for those who require additional protein intake, such as children, pregnant women, athletes, etc.
4. Improve food quality: The addition of leucine can improve the taste and texture of food, enhance the aroma and umami taste of food, and make it more attractive and delicious. This helps improve the quality and taste of food, increasing consumer satisfaction and acceptance.
5. Extend the shelf life: The antioxidant properties of leucine can extend the shelf life of food and reduce oxidation and quality loss of food during storage and transportation. This plays an important role in maintaining the freshness and quality of food, while also helping to reduce food waste.