Q. Explain the process of Degradation of Proteins?

Proteins are composed of amino acids combined by peptide linkages. The native proteins are resistant to attack by microorganisms. The,other compounds like dipeptides and free amino acids in fi-esh meat, fish and poultry are readily used by microorganisms. Spoilage of the protein-rich foods may be evident before any significant amount of protein IS degraded. The degradation of amino acids is of primary importance in the spoilage of protein foods. The products that are formed depend upon the following factors: (i) the type of microorganism (ii) amino acid composition of the material (iii) available dxygen, and (iv) type of inhibitors present. The anaerobic degradation of amino acids by microorganisms produces foul smell which is called as 'putMaction'. Aerobic degradation is called decay.