Enzymes are protein molecules that catalyze chemical reactions without being consumed in the process. They are produced by living cells and are essential for life. There are two main types of enzymes - those that join molecules together and those that break molecules apart. Enzymes are commonly used in food production, such as for making bread, cheese, and wine. Today, enzymes have many applications in food processing, textiles, and other industries. Some important enzymes used in food include amylase, protease, lipase, and pectinase. Meat tenderizing enzymes include papain from papaya and bromelain from pineapple. Enzymes can be derived from animals, plants, or microorganisms.