Canned Food Spoilage Causes

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What is the primary reason for maintaining a hermetic seal in canned food containers?

To prevent microorganisms from entering the container and causing leakage spoilage.

What is the major consequence of inadequate thermal processing in canned foods?

Insufficient destruction of microorganisms, leading to spoilage.

What is the common appearance of canned food spoilage due to inadequate thermal processing?

Swollen containers.

What is the primary cause of leakage spoilage in canned foods?

Inadequately formed seams, defective containers, or contaminated cooling water. Signup and view all the answers

What is a critical factor in preventing microbial growth in canned foods?

Acidity (pH) level of the food. Signup and view all the answers

What is a common method for preventing spoilage in canned foods?

Proper handling and storage of containers to prevent damage and contamination. Signup and view all the answers

What is the main reason why thermal processes designed to kill mesophilic bacterial spores are not effective against thermophilic bacterial spores?

The spores of thermophilic bacteria have a greater heat resistance than the spores of mesophilic bacteria. Signup and view all the answers

Why is it impractical to establish thermal processes to destroy thermophilic bacterial spores?

Because the quality of the food products would suffer greatly. Signup and view all the answers

What is necessary to prevent thermophilic spoilage in canned foods?

Products must be properly cooled after thermal processing and held below 35°C during subsequent storage. Signup and view all the answers

What is the significance of thermophilic spoilage in canned foods?

It has economic significance, but not public health significance. Signup and view all the answers

In what type of products can butyric acid anaerobes cause spoilage?

Products with a pH between 4.2 and 4.6. Signup and view all the answers

What is a visible sign of spoilage in canned products?

A swollen or irregular appearance of the can. Signup and view all the answers

What is the primary cause of 'flat sour' spoilage in canned foods?

Thermophilic bacteria that may have survived sterilization Signup and view all the answers

What is the result of storing canned foods at high temperatures, leading to spoilage?

Stack burning, characterized by softening of contents, discoloration, and an unpleasant flavor Signup and view all the answers

What is a common cause of food discoloration in canned foods?

Reaction between food materials and the container, or contamination before canning Signup and view all the answers

What is the primary factor influencing the growth of microorganisms in canned foods?

pH level of the food Signup and view all the answers

How can 'black stains' be prevented in canned foods, especially corn?

By controlling temperature and preventing the breakdown of sulfur compounds in proteins Signup and view all the answers

What is a key prevention method for spoilage in canned foods?

Adequate processing, prompt cooling, and good sanitary conditions Signup and view all the answers