How can microorganisms cause deterioration of food?
Understand the Problem
The question is asking how microorganisms contribute to the deterioration of food, focusing on the processes involved such as synthesis and enzymatic changes.
Answer
Microorganisms break down food, producing enzymes and waste that cause spoilage.
Microorganisms cause food deterioration by breaking down food components, producing enzymes and waste products like acids that lead to spoilage. These changes result in off-flavors, odors, and textures, making the food unfit for consumption.
Answer for screen readers
Microorganisms cause food deterioration by breaking down food components, producing enzymes and waste products like acids that lead to spoilage. These changes result in off-flavors, odors, and textures, making the food unfit for consumption.
More Information
Microbial spoilage involves enzymatic changes and the production of by-products that affect food's sensory qualities such as taste, smell, and appearance.
Tips
A common mistake is overlooking the role of both microbial growth and enzyme production in spoilage processes.
Sources
- Food Spoilage by Microbes - Biology LibreTexts - bio.libretexts.org
- How Food Spoils - UNL Food - food.unl.edu
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