Food Storage Techniques

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Questions and Answers

What is the ideal storage temperature for spices to prevent degradation?

Above 30° C

Below 20° C (correct)

Above 25° C

Below 15° C

Which type of tea is fully oxidized?

White tea

Oolong tea

Black tea (correct)

Green tea

What is the recommended method for storing dried pulses for long-term preservation?

In an open bowl

In a cardboard box

In a plastic wrap

In a freezer bag (correct)

What is one benefit of cutting flower stems at an angle?

Prevents air blockage in vessels Signup and view all the answers

Which of the following factors can influence deteriorative changes during storage?

Temperature and humidity Signup and view all the answers

Which tea is known for being minimally processed?

White tea Signup and view all the answers

What should be added to airtight containers to help prolong the shelf life of stored items?

Oxygen absorbers Signup and view all the answers

Which option does not correspond to the changes occurring during storage?

Flexibility Signup and view all the answers

Which of the following is NOT a true tea derived from the Camellia sinensis plant?

Herbal tea Signup and view all the answers

Dried pulses should be stored in a warm and humid place to maintain their quality.

False Signup and view all the answers

What is one advantage of cutting flower stems at an angle?

Increases surface area for water absorption Signup and view all the answers

The ideal temperature for storing spices should be kept below ___° C.

20 Signup and view all the answers

Match the type of tea with its description.

Black tea = Fully oxidized, strong flavor Green tea = Unoxidized, delicate flavor Oolong tea = Partially oxidized balance White tea = Minimally processed, light flavor Signup and view all the answers

What role do oxygen absorbers play in storage?

They remove oxygen to kill bugs. Signup and view all the answers

Fluctuations in temperature can lead to condensation and mold formation in stored items.

True Signup and view all the answers

What is the primary purpose of cereal storage?

To retain the supply of food grain throughout the year Signup and view all the answers

What is the primary factor to control in order to reduce spoilage during the storage of cereals?

Moisture content Signup and view all the answers

What effect does low temperature have on stored products?

Inhibits microbial growth Signup and view all the answers

Which method is recommended for storing ground and dried herbs?

In an airtight container at stable temperatures Signup and view all the answers

Why is controlling temperature critical during the storage of cereals?

It slows down metabolic processes Signup and view all the answers

What is a potential consequence of high moisture content in cereal storage?

Growth of microorganisms Signup and view all the answers

What should be avoided to maintain the pungency of herbs?

Direct exposure to air Signup and view all the answers

Which of the following can lead to localized wet spots in stored products?

High humidity levels Signup and view all the answers

What is the primary factor for the shelf life of fresh produce?

Storage temperature Signup and view all the answers

What is a characteristic of oolong tea?

It is partially oxidized, balancing black and green tea. Signup and view all the answers

What is the primary goal of storing maize on pellets above the floor?

To avoid cold conditions that can lead to molds Signup and view all the answers

Which method is effective for prolonging the freshness of cut flowers?

Using standard vase solution to provide nutrients. Signup and view all the answers

How can post-harvest technology benefit agricultural producers?

By preventing losses during harvest and storage. Signup and view all the answers

Which of the following is NOT a purpose of cereal storage?

Allow for the rapid deterioration of product quality Signup and view all the answers

Which of the following indicates deterioration in grain?

Presence of a sour or musty smell. Signup and view all the answers

Which factor does NOT contribute to deteriorative changes during storage?

Stable oxygen levels Signup and view all the answers

What is the impact of proper sanitization and fumigation in grain storage?

Prevents the growth of pathogens Signup and view all the answers

What is a recommended condition for storing dried pulses?

Keep in a cool, dark, and dry place. Signup and view all the answers

What is one strategy to help assess grain deterioration?

Analyze changes in grain color. Signup and view all the answers

Which of the following factors is related to the pre-harvest phase that affects postharvest life of flowers?

Genetic makeup of the flower Signup and view all the answers

What should be done to the stems of cut flowers exuding milky fluid?

Dip the stems in hot water briefly. Signup and view all the answers

Which condition must be avoided to prevent re-wetting of stored grain?

Moisture migration or rain Signup and view all the answers

What effect does allowing aeration in grain storage have?

Helps keep down the relative humidity of interstitial gases Signup and view all the answers

Which of the following is important for an effective storage system?

Maintain a stable, uniform storage environment. Signup and view all the answers

What is one of the key benefits of pulsing cut flowers?

Enhances the colors of the flower Signup and view all the answers

Study Notes

Herb and Spice Storage

Humidity, heat, and direct sunlight degrade herb and spice pungency.
Store in airtight containers, away from sunlight, in a cool, dark cupboard.
Maintain a stable temperature below 20°C to prevent condensation and mold; fluctuations can result in condensation and mold.
Herbs and spices should be kept in a cool dark cupboard.

Tea Types

All true teas originate from Camellia sinensis leaves.
Black tea: Fully oxidized, strong flavor, dark color.
Green tea: Unoxidized, green color, delicate flavor.
Oolong tea: Partially oxidized, balance of black and green.
White tea: Minimally processed, light, subtle flavor.
Yellow tea.
Herbal tea: Not made from tea leaves—herbs, fruits, and flowers.

Pulse Storage

Store dried pulses in cool, dark, dry places.
Use airtight containers (e.g., mylar bags, glass jars) to protect from air, moisture, and pests.
For long-term storage, freeze in freezer bags or airtight containers—kills insects, prevents spoilage, indefinite shelf life.
Add oxygen absorbers (iron-containing) to remove oxygen, kill bugs.
Vacuum seal to remove excess oxygen.

Flower Preservation

Cut flower stems at an angle to increase water absorption and eliminate air pockets in conducting vessels, improving rehydration.

Pulsing Flowers

Prolongs vase life.
Promotes bud opening.
Maintains flower color.

Storage Deterioration Factors

Physical: Temperature, humidity.
Chemical: Moisture, oxygen, oxidation.
Physiological: Respiration, heating.
Biological: Insects, microorganisms, mites, rodents, birds.
Changes during storage: Carbohydrates (CHO), proteins, fats, minerals, discoloration, viability, flavor.

Cereal Storage Purposes

Maintain year-round food supply.
Ensure seed viability for the next planting season.
Take advantage of higher market prices.
Act as reserves during times of scarcity.

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Description

Explore essential techniques for storing herbs, spices, tea, and pulses to maintain their quality and flavor. Learn the best practices for temperature control and airtight storage methods to preserve your food items effectively. This quiz will enhance your understanding of food preservation.