amylopectin

American  

[am-uh-loh-pek-tin] / ˌæm ə loʊˈpɛk tɪn /

noun

1. the insoluble or gel component of starch that forms a paste with water, but does not solidify, and that turns red in iodine.

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amylopectin British  

/ ˌæmɪləʊˈpɛktɪn /

noun

1. the major component of starch (about 80 per cent), consisting of branched chains of glucose units. It is insoluble and gives a red-brown colour with iodine Compare amylose

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Etymology

Origin of amylopectin

First recorded in 1900–05; amylo- + pectin

Compare meaning

How does amylopectin compare to similar and commonly confused words? Explore the most common comparisons:

• amylose vs. amylopectin

Example Sentences

Cellulose is an example of an unbranched polysaccharide, whereas amylopectin, a constituent of starch, is a highly branched molecule.

From Textbooks • Jun. 9, 2022

Incidentally, it's this amylopectin — which is also present, albeit in smaller amounts, in bakers — that turns potatoes puréed in a food processor into a gluey mess.

From Los Angeles Times • Nov. 21, 2014

These contain more moisture than bakers and are higher in a starch called amylopectin, which holds them together after cooking.

From Los Angeles Times • Nov. 21, 2014

They occur in long chains called amylose or branched chains called amylopectin, both of which are stored in plant-based foods and are relatively easy to digest.

From Textbooks • Jun. 19, 2013

Jasmine Thailand's favorite, this aromatic rice has more amylopectin, or sticky starch, than other long-grain rice, so it's moist and tender.

From Time Magazine Archive