Question

Example of water soluble plant pigment is

• A. Chlorophyll-a
• B. Chlorophyll-b
• C. Anthocyanin
• D. Xanthophyll

Answer 1

Answer: (C)

Anthocyanin

Anthocyanins are a very large group of red-blue plant pigments. Anthocyanins occur in all higher plants, mostly in flowers and fruits but also in leaves, stems, and roots. Anthocyanins are water soluble strong colours and have been used to colour food since historical times. Extracts of berries have been used to colour drinks, pastries and other foods. Anthocyanins are water soluble, which restricts the use, and are pH dependent. When the acidity changes, the colour changes. For example, the colour of red cabbage is enhanced with the addition of vinegar or other acid. On the other hand, when cooked in aluminium pans, which cause a more alkaline environment, the colour changes to purple and blue.

Chlorophyll a and chlorophyll b are natural, fat-soluble chlorophylls found in plants.

Xanthophyll is insoluble in water.

Therefore, the correct answer is option C.