Hemicellulase

Hemicellulase (CAS 9025-56-3, EC 232-799-9) is an enzyme complex that catalyses the hydrolysis of hemicellulose, breaking down the branched polysaccharide chains found in plant cell walls into shorter oligosaccharides and monosaccharides. It is sold under trade names including Sclase X, NS 22002, Pentopan, Veron HE, and Veron ST.

In baking, hemicellulase cleaves arabinoxylan chains in wheat flour, improving dough extensibility and crumb structure without added water. In pulp and paper processing, it degrades hemicellulose surrounding lignin fibres, reducing the chemical load required during bleaching. Textile and leather processors use it to modify fibre surfaces and improve penetration of dyes and finishing agents.

Hemicellulase is available in powder form across food-grade and technical-grade specifications, with food-grade material typically conforming to FCC standards. Suppliers operating in the EU must register enzyme preparations under REACH where applicable. Packaging formats commonly include fibre drums and multi-wall bags.