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Proper food storage requires the use of good storage facilities. Storage facilities include plastic containers, food cupboard, shelves and racks, refrigerator and deep freezer
Reasons for Storage
- To prevent pests from eating and spoiling them.
- To make foodstuffs available always in the house.
- To save cost by bulk buying when food is in season.
- To ensure store is well arranged.
Containers for Storing Food
- Polythene bags and sheets.
- Special wrapping leaves and papers like banana or plantain leaves, foil, etc.
- Plastic containers with tight fitting lids and covered buckets.
- Bottles
- Glass containers
- Food store is a place for storing food. It is often part of the kitchen.
Ways of Storing Food
- Salting
- Drying
- Smoking.
- Refrigeration and Home Freezing: A refrigerator is needed for this method. A deep freezer can also be used. Fish, meat and milk are most preserved using this method. This method slows down bacterial actions but don’t totally stop it. Food in the refrigerator can last for one or two days, while the ones in the freezer can last for three or more days.
- Canning: Keeping food canned significantly extends its lifespan – but only if done correctly. The canning process preserves food by removing oxygen through an airtight seal and containing food in an acidic, sugary, or salty environment, where bacteria cannot thrive
Differences Between Chilling and Freezing
The main difference between chilling and freezing is that of temperature. Chilling refers to subjecting food products to low temperature while freezing refers to subjecting food products to temperature below their freezing point. The temperature depends on the food products. It differs from product to product. Chilling is before freezing, like frosting and still can be pliable. And freezing is frozen which may be rock hard. Refers to food that is thoroughly cooled in a refrigerator compartment, but is not frozen. Proper chilling of food is usually accomplished within a temperature range of 33°F to 42°F.
Quiz
- Mention four methods of food preservation.
- What are the reasons for food storage?
- List three containers for storing food.
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