Controlled Atmosphere And Modified Atmosphere

Question 1

What is Modified Atmosphere Packaging (MAP)?

Answer 1

A technology that alters the composition of gases in packaging to extend shelf life and maintain product freshness

MAP helps protect products from microbial spoilage by controlling the atmosphere around them.

Question 2

What are the key gases involved in MAP?

Answer 2

Oxygen (O2) and Carbon Dioxide (CO2)

These gases are controlled to prevent microbial growth and maintain freshness.

Question 3

What is the effect of increased respiration in fruits and vegetables?

Answer 3

It leads to excessive nutrient consumption, reduced oxygen concentration, and increased CO2 concentration

This accelerates aging and shortens shelf life.

Question 4

What are the two types of respiration in plants?

Answer 4

• Aerobic Respiration
• Anaerobic Respiration

Each type of respiration has different metabolic processes and impacts on energy production.

Question 5

Describe Aerobic Respiration.

Answer 5

It consists of oxidative breakdown of substrates resulting in energy release, producing CO2 and water

This process is efficient and involves the consumption of oxygen.

Question 6

What is Anaerobic Respiration?

Answer 6

A metabolic process that occurs in the absence of oxygen, often leading to undesirable outcomes in food preservation

It can increase microbial growth and decay.

Question 7

Fill in the blank: _______ is essential for the preservation of fruits and vegetables.

Answer 7

Controlled atmosphere

This helps maintain product quality during storage.

Question 8

True or False: Controlled Atmosphere (CA) storage is less precise than Modified Atmosphere (MA) storage.

Answer 8

False

CA is more exact in maintaining desired storage conditions.

Question 9

What role does ozone play in post-harvest storage?

Answer 9

It helps reduce respiration rates and microbial growth

Ozone can improve the quality of stored products.

Question 10

What is the primary metabolic process in plants that produces energy?

Answer 10

Respiration

This process is crucial for the survival and growth of plants.

Question 11

What are the consequences of respiration in fruits and vegetables?

Answer 11

• Energy production
• Nutrient consumption
• Aging
• Shortened shelf life

Managing respiration is vital for extending the freshness of produce.

Question 12

What does the term ‘microbial pollution’ refer to?

Answer 12

Contamination of food products by microorganisms that can cause spoilage or disease

This is a significant concern in food storage and preservation.

Question 13

What is the impact of high CO2 concentration on stored produce?

Answer 13

It can inhibit respiration and microbial growth, helping to preserve freshness

However, balance is crucial to avoid negative effects on product quality.

Question 14

What is the main goal of post-harvest technology?

Answer 14

To maintain the quality and extend the shelf life of harvested products

This includes managing respiration, microbial growth, and storage conditions.