Why Food Is Cooked

Question 1

To make it safe to eat

Answer 1

Bacteria can be killed when cooked long enough at high temperatures

Question 2

To improve shelf life

Answer 2

Bacteria and mould are destroyed
This is how foods are preserved during manufacturing
Milk is pasteurised

Question 3

To develop flavours

Answer 3

Chemical reactions take place which changes the flavour

Question 4

To improve texture

Answer 4

Foods become softer
Meats become more tender
Other foods become firm (eggs coagulate - opaque to solid)
More pleasant to eat

Question 5

To give a variety in the diet

Answer 5

Foods can be cooked in a variety of ways.