Oryzenin

Oryzenin is the principal glutelin storage protein of rice, the fraction that accumulates in the endosperm to nourish the germinating seedling. As a glutelin it is soluble in dilute alkali rather than in water or salt solutions, distinguishing it from the smaller albumin and globulin fractions of rice protein. Nutritionally it is significant because rice protein, though modest in quantity, has a relatively balanced amino acid profile for a cereal, and oryzenin contributes much of that quality. Food scientists study its extraction and functional properties for rice protein concentrates used in hypoallergenic infant formulas and sports nutrition, where its low allergenicity compared with dairy and soy proteins is a commercial advantage.