Papaya has papain that can hydrolyze peptide bonds in the proteins. In the process of marinating a tough meat, why is fresh papaya used?

• A. Actually, both fresh and cooked papaya can serve as meat tenderizers with only minimal distinction between the two.
• B. Cooked papaya should actually be used, as papain works more actively in breaking down the meat.
• C. Fresh papaya is preferred for marinating tough meat due to its papain that improves the overall taste and aroma of the meat.
• D. Fresh papaya is preferred for marinating tough meat due to the active papain enzymes that help break down proteins and tenderize the meat.

Answer: (D)