How are the chemical reactions of foodstuff with the environment controlled during storage?
Answer»
Primarily the oxygen and microorganisms in air are responsible for adverse effects on stored food.
The exposure of stored food to atmosphere is minimized by storing them in air tight container, evacuation or filling the container with N2 gas.
Rate of a chemical reaction decreases with lowering of temperature. Thus, refrigeration is useful for controlling chemical reaction of foodstuff with environment.
The reactions of foodstuff with environment are catalysed by enzymes. Due to boiling, the enzymes become denatured and the reactions are controlled.