What is one of the intrinsic factors affecting microbial growth in food?
Understand the Problem
The question is asking for an example of an intrinsic factor that affects the growth of microorganisms in food. It provides multiple-choice options, and the respondent needs to identify one that fits the definition of an intrinsic factor.
Answer
Water activity levels.
One intrinsic factor affecting microbial growth in food is water activity levels.
Answer for screen readers
One intrinsic factor affecting microbial growth in food is water activity levels.
More Information
Water activity refers to the availability of unbound water in food, necessary for microbial growth. Lowering water activity in food products can inhibit microbial growth.
Tips
A common mistake is confusing water content with water activity; even if food has high moisture, it may not have a high enough water activity for microbes.
Sources
- Factors affecting the growth of microorganisms in food - Microbe Notes - microbenotes.com
- Chapter 3. Factors that Influence Microbial Growth - canr.msu.edu
- Microbial Growth in Food - an overview | ScienceDirect Topics - sciencedirect.com
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