Question

Explain the following briefly:

What is done in food processing to extend shelf life?

Answer 1

1. Removal of moisture: Drying and dehydration reduce water content, which prevents microbial growth.
2. Use of heat treatment: Methods like pasteurisation, sterilisation, and canning destroy harmful microorganisms and enzymes.
3. Low-temperature storage: Refrigeration and freezing slow down the growth of microorganisms and delay spoilage.
4. Addition of preservatives: Salt, sugar, vinegar, and approved chemical preservatives help prevent microbial growth.
5. Proper packaging: Airtight and modern packaging methods protect food from air, moisture, and contamination.
6. Fermentation and other techniques: Controlled fermentation helps preserve certain foods and improves their quality.