How does the concept of tonicity apply to the preservation of food using salt or sugar?
Instructor solution
Preservation of food using salt or sugar creates a hypertonic environment around the food. This high solute concentration causes water to move out of microbial cells by osmosis, leading to dehydration and inhibition of microbial growth, thereby preserving the food.
Think you've got it?
What is the primary reason salt or sugar preserves food?
- A.
It provides essential nutrients to the food.
- B.
It lowers the temperature of the food.
- C.
It creates a hypertonic environment that dehydrates microbial cells.
- D.
It increases the acidity of the food.
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