What is the Difference Between Hydrolysable Tannins and Condensed Tannins?

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The main difference between hydrolysable tannins and condensed tannins lies in their structure and properties.

Hydrolysable Tannins:

  • Contain a polyol core, usually a carbohydrate, to which phenolic acids are linked by ester bonds.
  • Yield carbohydrate and phenolic acids upon hydrolysis.
  • Can be further divided into gallotannins (provide sugar and gallic acid on hydrolysis) and ellagitannins.
  • Found in foods such as legume seeds, cider, tea, nuts, peas, cocoa, leafy green vegetables, and coffee.

Condensed Tannins:

  • Formed by catechin units through C4–C8 or C6–C8 links.
  • Also known as proanthocyanidins or catechin tannins.
  • Contains repeating flavan-3-ol units, including catechin and epicatechin.
  • Found in grape skins, seeds, and flesh.

In summary, hydrolysable tannins are characterized by their carbohydrate and phenolic acid components, while condensed tannins are formed from the condensation of flavans and contain repeating catechin units. Both types of tannins can be found in various plant foods and contribute to their bitter taste and astringent properties.

Comparative Table: Hydrolysable Tannins vs Condensed Tannins

The main difference between hydrolysable tannins and condensed tannins is their structure and formation. Here is a table summarizing their differences:

Feature Hydrolysable Tannins Condensed Tannins
Structure Contain a polyol core and can yield carbohydrate and phenolic acids upon hydrolysis Formed from the condensation of flavans
Hydrolysis Can be hydrolyzed from weak acids or weak bases Solid-phase reaction between catechin units, forming C4–C8 or C6–C8 links
Subgroups Divided into gallotannins and ellagitannins Can be further classified into proanthocyanidins or catechin tannins
Occurrence Found in many plant foods, such as legume seeds, cider, tea, nuts, peas, cocoa, leafy green vegetables, and coffee Found in several plant species and are more resistant to microbial degradation than hydrolysable tannins

Tannins are water-soluble polyphenols that can be found in many plant foods and are known for their antioxidant properties.