7) Food Safety Flashcards
What are microbes?
Microbes are tiny organisms that cannot be seen with the naked eye.
What are two examples of microbes?
Examples of microbes include bacteria and mould.
How can microbes be observed?
(Name the instrument)
A microscope is needed to observe microbes.
How do microbes affect food?
Microbes can cause food spoilage, making it unsafe to eat.
What happens to milk when it spoils?
Milk turns sour and acidic when spoiled.
What tools can test spoiled milk?
Spoiled milk can be tested using blue litmus paper, universal indicator, or a pH meter.
What occurs to bread when it spoils?
Bread becomes mouldy when spoiled.
What factors affect microbial activity in food?
Factors include
pH levels,
oxygen supply,
water content, and
temperature.
How does lowering pH prevent spoilage?
Lowering pH, such as through pickling, preserves food for a longer time.
What is vacuum packing and its purpose?
Vacuum packing reduces oxygen contact with food to prevent spoilage.
What is the process of freeze-drying?
Freeze-drying involves freezing food to remove most of its water content.
How does dehydration preserve food?
Dehydration heats food to eliminate most of its water content.
What role do chemical preservatives play in food safety?
Chemical preservatives act as dehydrating agents, removing water to slow down spoilage.
Why is understanding microbes important for food safety?
Understanding microbes is crucial for preventing spoilage and ensuring food safety.
What methods can prolong the shelf life of food?
Methods include
lowering pH,
reducing oxygen supply, and
reducing water content.
What are chemical preservatives?
Substances that remove water from air/food to prevent spoilage.
What is the process of sterilisation in food preservation?
Heat food to high temperatures to kill microbes.
How does pasteurisation differ from sterilisation?
Pasteurisation heats food, then cools it quickly to prevent microbial growth.
What is the canning process?
Heat food to high temperatures under pressure to kill microbes.
How does the freezing method preserve food?
It slows down microbial activity, extending the food’s shelf life.
What are food additives?
Substances added to food to enhance
flavor,
appearance,
texture,
nutritional content, and
shelf life.
What is the primary function of preservatives in food additives?
To prevent or slow down food spoilage.
Give an example of a preservative used in salted fish.
Salt is used as a preservative in salted fish.
