How does radioactivity contribute to the preservation of food?

JAMB Chemistry 2023 55 views

How does radioactivity contribute to the preservation of food?

  1. It helps to cook food at high temperatures for preservation.
  2. It is used to create artificial preservatives for longer shelf life.
  3. It helps to sterilize food products to prevent spoilage and contamination. ✓
  4. It contributes to the development of genetically modified foods.

Explanation

Food irradiation uses controlled doses of radiation to kill bacteria, molds, and insects that cause food spoilage. The radiation damages the DNA of these organisms, preventing them from multiplying.

This process is similar to pasteurization but uses radiation instead of heat. Irradiated food stays fresh longer without needing refrigeration or chemical preservatives.

The food itself does not become radioactive. The radiation passes through the food briefly, killing harmful microorganisms while leaving the food safe to eat.

pastquestions.ng