Current views on fungal chitin/chitosan, human chitinases, food preservation, glucans, pectins and inulin: A tribute to Henri Braconnot, precursor of the carbohydrate polymers science, on the chitin bicentennial

► Bicentennial of chitin, first carbohydrate polymer discovered. ► Food chitin digested by human chitinases enhances immune defenses. ► Chitosan protects crops against microbial attack and spoilage. ► Plant extracts reacted with chitosan yield valuable products. ► Braconnot's work is still pivotal for sustainable green solutions.