We have done some work on pectin methyl esterase which does indeed occur in carrots. Here is a link to a manuscript on this topic from our group. The enzyme catalyzes the separation of methyl esters from carrots, and the free carboxyl groups can then bind calcium which creates stronger networks. Essentially you get a firming of the carrot tissue. The same enzyme occurs naturally in most plant tissues.

-Diane M. Barrett, PhD