Question

State and explain the various methods for preventing or retarding rancidity of food.

Answer 1

For preventing or retarding rancidity of food, following methods can be applied:

(1) Use of antioxidants:
   Antioxidants are those substances that prevent oxidation.

(2) Use of nitrogen gas:
 Nitrogen gas is added during the packaging of the potato chips to prevent oxidation of fat and oil because it is an unreactive gas.

(3) Use of airtight containers:
Preserving food in airtight containers reduces its exposure to oxygen and thus slows down the oxidation process.

(4) Use of refrigerator:
Preserving food in the refrigerator slows down rancidity.