Biomolecules and Chemistry in Daily Life

1. Introduction to Chemicals in Food

1. Chemicals in food are added to enhance flavor, texture, shelf life, and nutritional value.
2. Common food chemicals include preservatives, sweeteners, antioxidants, emulsifiers, and stabilizers.
3. These chemicals must be safe, non-toxic, and approved by regulatory bodies like the FDA and FSSAI.

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1. Introduction to Drugs and Medicines

1. Drugs are chemical substances used to diagnose, treat, or prevent diseases.
2. Medicines are drugs that provide therapeutic effects with minimal side effects.
3. They interact with biological molecules like enzymes and receptors to produce effects.
4. Drugs can be classified based on their function, chemical structure, or target.

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1. Introduction to Enzymes

1. Enzymes are biological catalysts that speed up chemical reactions in living organisms.
2. They are mostly proteins, except for some RNA molecules known as ribozymes.
3. Enzymes work by lowering the activation energy of a reaction.
4. They remain unchanged after the reaction and can be used multiple times.

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1. Vitamins

1. Vitamins are organic compounds required in small amounts for essential metabolic processes.
2. They are classified into water-soluble (Vitamin B-complex and Vitamin C) and fat-soluble (Vitamins A, D, E, and K).

Water-Soluble Vitamins

1. Vitamin B1 (Thiamine): Helps in carbohydrate metabolism. Deficiency causes beriberi.
2. Vitamin B2 (Riboflavin): Essential for energy production.

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