Glossary Terms beginning with L

L

Lees

The sediments obtained from an alcoholic beverage, such as wine, during fermentation and aging.

Lipid

Fat or fat-like substance found in the cells of plants and animals that includes fats, waxes, oils, and related compounds.

Liposomes

A liposome is a spherical vesicle composed of a bilayer membrane. Liposomes can be composed of naturally-derived phospholipids with mixed lipid chains or of pure surfactant components. Liposomes usually (but not always) contain a core of aqueous solution. Lipid spheres that contain no aqueous material are called micelles. A liposome can encapsulate different substances inside the “droplet” and, in this manner, act like a delivery system. Liposomes are useful for stabilizing ingredients that are sensitive to degradation when exposed to air.

Lysate

The contents released from a cell that has been broken apart.

Lytic Agent

Substances that help to break down lipids, proteins, and polysaccharides into smaller components, usually by the action of enzymes.