Certified Cheese Professional Practice Exam

Lipases are classified as enzymes, which are biological catalysts that facilitate biochemical reactions without being consumed in the process. Specifically, lipases play a crucial role in the digestion of fats by breaking down lipids into fatty acids and glycerol, thereby aiding in the absorption of fat in the digestive system. This enzymatic activity is essential in both digestive health and various food processing applications, particularly in the production of dairy products like cheese, where they help develop flavor and texture.

The other terms do not accurately describe lipases: while proteins are a broader category that includes enzymes, not all proteins are enzymes, and lipases specifically function as enzymes. Bacteria may produce lipases as part of their metabolic processes, but lipases themselves are not bacteria. Acids are substances that can donate protons in solutions and are unrelated to the functional role of lipases.