What Are Examples of Foods Containing Polysaccharides?
According to Natural Well Being, foods that contain polysaccharides include whole grains, bread, pastries, potatoes and desserts. Specific examples of polysaccharides in food include starch and glycogen.These polysaccharides are found in starchy foods, rich in carbohydrates. Polysaccharides in carbohydrates are used as major energy sources, second to protein and fats. They are often used in energy drinks and power bars.
Natural Well Being explains that polysaccharides are polymeric carbohydrate structures that are created by glycosidic bonds. They are typically linear with only slight structural modifications. Polysaccharides consist of chains of glucose molecules that include starch, cellulose, pectin and glycogen, according to Colorado State University. Nutrient-rich foods, such as beans, potatoes, grains and vegetables, contain plenty of starch and polysaccharides.
According to Oregon State University’s Carbohydrates General information, carbohydrates are typically composed of monosaccharides, disaccharides, polysaccharides and oligosaccharides. These different types of saccharides, or sugars, are the building blocks of carbohydrates. Fruits, honey and processed foods are abundant in glucose and fructose. Fruits are great sources of vitamins and fiber. Plants contain starch, cellulose and pectin, while glycogen serves as the storage form of glucose for humans and animals. For example, some cellulose is found in the coverings of seeds and stalks and leaves of fruits and vegetables.
