Food preservation principles

Controlling the factors that affect the ability of microorganisms to survive and multiply helps to ensure that food remains safe and free from spoilage-causing and/or pathogenic bacteria.

On the other hand, beneficial microorganisms play an essential role in food processing as they help to preserve food, improve flavor and texture, and provide food safety benefits. Microorganisms such as lactic acid forming bacteria, yeast, and molds are used to produce fermented products like cheese, yogurt, and pickles. Fermented products have extended shelf lives and many beneficial health properties due to the presence of these beneficial bacteria. Microorganisms can also be used to increase the flavor and texture of food, such as in the production of beer and wine.