Bromelain is an enzyme from the pineapple fruit. Bromelain powder is easily encapsulated as a dietary supplement, or it can be added to smoothies and fruit drinks. When added to marinades or sprinkled directly on meat, bromelain degrades protein and collagen, which tenderizes the food. In fact, because this enzyme is present in all parts of the plant, including the fruit, this explains why pineapple cannot be used to make gelatin.
