Define Points to Remember regarding to Food Processing?

1. Conversion of raw materials and ingredients into acceptable consumer products is referred to food processing, which comprises of all the steps right from the time the raw materials are procured to the time it arrives on consumer tables, including preservation.

2. Most of the foods we buy are processed in some way or another. These processes help to make the products that are safe, of consistent quality and convenient for the consumers, prolonged shelf-life and available round the year.

3. Food spoilage or deterioration refers to the alterations in the foods or undergoing some physiological, chemical and biological changes, which render the food inedible or hazardous to eat. Food spoilage may affect: safety, nutritional value, organoleptic desirability, aesthetic appeal and change in color, texture, flavor and other quality attributes of the food.

4. Major causes of food deterioration: Growth of microorganisms (bacteria, yeasts, molds); activities of food enzymes and other chemicals within the food itself; infestation by insects, parasites, rodents; oxidation; time, temperature and light; physical stress or abuse.

5. The principles of food preservation refer to the processing techniques that are used to prevent food from spoilage caused by the above agents.

6. The origin of food processing goes all the way back to 8000 B.C. Smoking, drying, and salting were some of the most frequently used processes of preservation during ancient period.