Question

What happens when food materials containing fats and oils are left for a long time? List two observable changes and suggest three ways by which this phenomenon can be prevented.

Answer 1

When food materials containing fats and oils are left for a long time they become rancid.

Rancidity:

• “Rancidity is the condition produced by aerial oxidation of unsaturated fat present in foods and other products, marked by unpleasant odor or flavor.”

The two observable changes when food materials containing fats and oils are left for a long time are:

• The change in smell.
• The change in taste.

Prevention of Rancidity:

• Randicity can be prevented by adding antioxidants to food.
• The food must be stored in airtight containers/jars to slow the process of rancidification.
• The food must be kept in the refrigerator to prevent rancidification.
• The nitrogen gas must be used in packaged food to prevent rancidity.