Question.
How do we save our food from spoilage?
(Chapter 3: The Mystery of Food, Class 5 EVS – The Wondrous World)
Answer.
Growing microbes in food are the main cause of food spoilage. Microorganisms are everywhere, the found in water, soil, and the air around us.
Microbes need moisture, air, and the right temperature to grow. If we remove any one of these, we can stop them in their tracks. All life needs water and air to survive.
The following are ways we can save our food from spoilage:
1. Drying and Dehydration:
Drying food in sunlight removes moisture from it. Microbes cannot grow properly without water.
For example, chillies, peas, gram, corn, papad, and fish are often dried in the sun to preserve them for a long time.
2. Pickling and Oiling
Oil keeps out air and stops the growth of microbes, which is why we use mustard oil in making pickles.
Pickles are preserved using salt, oil, vinegar, and spices. Oil forms a protective layer that prevents air and moisture from reaching the food. This slows the growth of microbes.
3. Refrigeration and Freezing
Low temperature slows down the growth of microorganisms. Refrigerators and freezers keep food fresh for a longer time by making the surroundings too cold for microbes to grow quickly.
Milk, fruits, vegetables, meat, and cooked food are commonly stored in refrigerators.
4. Use of Species
Some spices have natural antimicrobial properties that help prevent food spoilage.
For example, black pepper, turmeric, cloves, and mustard help keep food safe and also improve taste. Black pepper was so valuable, especially in Europe, that traders like Vasco da Gama travelled to India to collect spices.
5. Storing Food Properly
Food should be kept in clean, dry, and covered containers. This protects food from dust, insects, moisture, and germs.
6. Boiling and Heating
Heating or boiling food kills many harmful microorganisms. Milk is often boiled before drinking to make it safe.
Thus, by using proper preservation methods, we can reduce food spoilage, prevent wastage, and keep food safe to eat.
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