Question

Rancidity is the chemical decomposition of

• A. Fat
• B. Protein
• C. Carbohydrate
• D. All of the above

Answer 1

The correct option is A

Fat

The correct answer is A.

Explanation for correct answer:

Rancidity is the chemical decomposition of fats. It is of three types:

1. Absorption rancidity- When oil and fat are stored next to strong-smelling food, the smell is absorbed by the fats, making them unpleasant to use.
2. Oxidative rancidity- It happens when the double bond of unsaturated fats reacts chemically with oxygen.
3. Hydrolytic rancidity- It happens by the action of lipase enzyme which by hydrolysis split the fat into glycerol and fatty acids.

Explanation for incorrect answers:

Option B:

Protein food-

1. When they are contaminated, they go putrified.
2. In this situation, protein foods rot and produce a very bad smell.

Option C:

Carbohydrates-

1. Food becomes marshy and slimy when affected by micro-organisms.
2. This condition is known as serenades. Spoiled flour products smell and taste unpleasant, and thus are stale.

Final answer: Rancidity is the chemical decomposition of fats.