Question

How do antioxidants check rancidity? Give one example.

Answer 1

Rancidity:

Rancidity is the condition produced by aerial oxidation and of unsaturated fats and oils present in food resulting in unpleasant odor and flavor.

Role of antioxidants:

1. Antioxidants act as reducing agents as they lose their ${\mathrm{H}}^{+}$ ions to undergo oxidation.
2. They help to check the oxidation of oils and fats in food materials which leads to rancidity.

Example of antioxidants:

1. BHA (Butylated Hydroxy Anisole)
2. Selenium

Therefore, the addition of various antioxidants checks the oxidation of oils and fats present in the food materials.