Certified Cheese Professional Practice Exam

Lactoferrin is known to be which type of substance?

1. Bacteria

2. Protein

3. Enzyme

4. Acid

The correct answer is: Protein

Lactoferrin is classified as a protein, specifically, it is a multifunctional glycoprotein predominantly found in many secretory fluids, such as milk, saliva, and tears. It plays several vital roles in the body, particularly in iron binding and antimicrobial activity. As a protein, lactoferrin not only assists in regulating iron absorption but also has a significant role in the immune response, helping to prevent the growth of harmful bacteria and fungi. Understanding the nature of lactoferrin as a protein highlights its importance in both nutrition and health, particularly in the context of dairy products, where it contributes to the overall protective and nutritional quality of milk. This classification distinguishes it from enzymes, acids, and bacteria, which have different functions and characteristics in biological systems.