Question

List at least five methods to prevent spoilage of food

Answer 1

Food preservation: Food preservation refers to the methods utilized to protect food from unwanted microbial growth.

Following are some methods of food preservation:

1. Sugar: Sugar is a common preservative used in jams and jellies. Sugar is a good moisture absorbent. Reducing moisture content restrains microbial growth.
2. Smoking: Smoking prevents dehydration in fish and meat and thus prevents spoilage. The wood smoke contains a large number of anti-microbial compounds that slow the rancidity of animal fats.
3. Canning: The food contents are sealed in an airtight container at high temperatures. Meat, fish, and fruits are preserved by canning.
4. Sterilization: This method is carried out to remove microbes from food. For eg., milk sterilization at 100°C kills the microbes.
5. Dehydration: It is the process of removal of water from food. It is the simplest method and prevents food spoilage.