Cellulose is the main storage polysaccharide in animals, whereas chitin is the main storage polysaccharide in plants.

Cellulose is a monosaccharide, whereas chitin is a disaccharide.

Cellulose and chitin are both sweet, crystalline carbohydrates that dissolve readily in water.

Cellulose forms the main structure of plant cell walls, whereas chitin can be used as surgical thread that decomposes after the sewn wound heals.