how do preservatives keep food from spoiling?
2006-07-24 19:31:14 · 4 answers · asked by apex 2 in Food & Drink ➔ Other - Food & Drink
There are actually several ways. Basically it's all about killing bacteria.
Salt is one of the earliest (it makes it too acidic for bateria). But it makes the food salty.
Removing the water (dehydrating or drying) is also another; no water, no bacteria (jerky anyone?). But it makes food well, dry.
More modern methods do remove oxygen and keep the taiste, but often aren't that healthy (nitrites and so on).
The best solution is to eat fresh.
2006-07-24 20:21:23 · answer #1 · answered by adphllps 5 · 0⤊ 0⤋
By preventing oxidation and inhibiting bacterial growth. Kinda makes you wonder if it's OK to eat.
2006-07-25 02:36:46 · answer #2 · answered by Anonymous · 0⤊ 0⤋
They make the food so that brainless unicellular organisms refuse to eat it.
2006-07-25 02:35:35 · answer #3 · answered by Anonymous · 0⤊ 0⤋
They kill bacteria.
2006-07-25 02:34:19 · answer #4 · answered by Tom D 3 · 0⤊ 0⤋