Question

Pickles and smoked salmon are preserved using salt. Identify the statement which support this.

• A. Salt increases the oxygen supply, hence it prevents bacterial growth
• B. Salt is a water absorbent, hence it prevents bacterial growth.
• C. Salt reduces the oxygen supply, hence it prevents bacterial growth.
• D. Salt increases the concentration of water, hence it prevents bacterial growth.

Answer 1

The correct option is B Salt is a water absorbent, hence it prevents bacterial growth.

Preservation prevents the growth of bacteria, fungi and other microbes. It prevents the food spoilage. Salting is done by coating it to meat, mangoes, amla etc. It draws out water from the food items and dehydrate those. This prevents the growth of bacteria and thus the food can be preserved.