Question

(a) Explain the term "rancidity". What damage is caused by rancidity ?

(b) What type of chemical reaction is responsible for causing rancidity ?

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

Answer 1

(a) The condition produced by aerial oxidation of fats and oils in foods marked by unpleasant smell and taste is called rancidity. It spoils the food materials prepared in fats and oils which have been kept for a considerable time and makes them unfit for eating.

(b) Oxidation.

(c)

1. Rancidity can be prevented by adding anti-oxidants to foods containing fats and oils.
2. It can be prevented by packaging fat and oil containing foods in nitrogen gas.
3. Rancidity can be retarded by keeping food in a refrigerator.
4. Rancidity can be prevented by storing food in air-tight containers.
5. Storing foods away from light can also prevent rancidity.