The Maillard reaction between chitosan and hemicellulose model compounds such as mannose, xylose, and glucuronic acid was investigated. Chitosan and the compounds were dissolved in 1% acetic acid and were dried at 50 degrees C. In an analysis of the film obtained, weight increase, color difference, FTIR, relative amount of free amino groups, insolubility to dilute acetic acid, and tensile properties were measured. The film weight increased gradually as the compounds were added, and the color difference changed significantly. In addition, the relative amount of free amino groups decreased rapidly, and the insoluble matter increased markedly. In particular, xylose brought about drastic changes in a small amount addition. According to the results of FTIR spectra, the cleavage of sugar unit of chitosan and the formation of heterocyclic compounds were observed in all compounds. The formation of carbonyl and carboxyl groups was observed with the addition of a large amount of the compounds. The tensile strength was improved in 10-20 wt % additions of the compounds. (C) 2008 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.