FOOD TECHNOLOGY

Detailed explanation-1: -Shelf life of food products refers to the period for which they can be used while maintaining the food quality. Extrinsic factors, such as, gaseous atmosphere, storage temperature, and relative humidity coupled with intrinsic properties of food determine the shelf stability and perishability of food.

Detailed explanation-2: -Shelf life depends on the degradation mechanism of the specific product. Most can be influenced by several factors: exposure to light, heat, moisture, transmission of gases, mechanical stresses, and contamination by things such as micro-organisms.

Detailed explanation-3: -A product’s “shelf life” generally means the length of time you can expect a product to look and act as expected and to stay safe for use. This length of time varies, depending on the type of product, how it is used, and how it is stored.

Detailed explanation-4: -Preservatives are added to foods to keep them fresh and safe for consumption – preventing spoilage or rotting. Common preservatives include salts, sugars, gelatin and vinegars; which are used to prevent bacteria growth. Additives, such as nisin and trisodium phosphate, may also be used to help preserve foods.