Comparison between Amylose and Amylopectin Starch

By: Prof. Dr. Fazal Rehman Shamil | Last updated: February 3, 2024

 

Let me share with you a comparison between Amylose and Amylopectin Starch.

AspectAmyloseAmylopectin
Structural CompositionLinear polymer of glucoseBranched polymer of glucose
Linkage Between Glucose Unitsα-1,4-glycosidic linkageα-1,4-glycosidic linkage (linear chains)
Branching PointsNo branchingα-1,6-glycosidic linkage (branch points)
Molecular WeightLower molecular weightHigher molecular weight
Solubility in WaterGenerally soluble in waterGenerally Insoluble in water
Helical or Straight ChainForms a helical structure in solutionMainly straight-chain structure
Contribution to TextureContributes to the gel-like consistency in some cooked starches e.g., in rice.Contributes to the viscosity and thickness in starchy foods e.g., in sauces.
DigestibilityGenerally less digestible due to its helical structureMore digestible due to its branching, providing more sites for enzyme action
SourcesFound in grains, potatoes, and certain root vegetablesFound in grains and starchy vegetables like potatoes