Alpha-starch (α-starch)

Alpha-starch (α-starch) is a type of starch found mainly in rice and other grains. During saccharification, it is broken down by enzymes and becomes an important raw material for producing alcohol through fermentation. In sake brewing, the starch in rice is converted to its alpha form (known as alpha-ization, or α化) by enzymes, and this forms the basis from which fermentation creates sake's aroma and flavor. This change in alpha-starch is an important step in sake making.