Perspectives on the history of research on starch Part VI: Postscriptum

Starch has been used over several millennia for a number of different applications. However, research on understanding this substance only spans about three centuries starting with Leeuwenhoek who observed it in 1716. This story of discovery of the molecular structure and architectural makeup of starch is chronicled in a series of six essays of which this is the last. This essay juxtaposes the key developments in starch science within the broader context of historical developments in science highlighting the development of some key techniques in the 1800s that were essential to studying starch. This essay also provides insight into the personalities of researchers, the styles of research, and the communicating of research throughout history.