food Flashcards
what are the possible ways microorganisms can interact with our food
positive- aid in food processing, preservation, and production
negative- foodborne illness or spoilage
what is food spoilage
loses organic characteristics, physical and chemical properties change
what is microbial spoilage
caused by growth of microorganisms which change the color, texture, and odor
describe the two types of microbial spoilage
physical- physical harm to the food that results in damage
chemical- enzymes from food or microorganism result in enzymatic spoilage
what are intrinsic factors
related to the food
what are extrinsic factors
related to the environment
what are the main intrinsic factors
pH, water activity, nutrient content, biological structure
describe intrinsic factor of pH
low pH does not allow microorganisms to grow, buffering capacity is how well a food can resist these ph changes
can adding ingredients with pH be used to preserve foods
no
describe intrinsic factor of water activity
higher water content means higher chance for microbial growth
describe intrinsic factor of nutrient content
microorganisms grow best in nutrient dense food
describe intrinsic factor of biological structure
natural coverings or protections from microorganisms
what are the main extrinsic factors
temperature, humidity, and atmosphere
describe extrinsic factor of temperature
low temp=less activity of microbes and less membrane fluidity
high temp=denature enzymes
describe extrinsic factor of humidity
dry conditions limit growth
