Question

Bloats in evaporated milk is caused by

• A. Proteus ichthyosmius
• B. Staphylococcus epidermides
• C. Bacillus subtilis
• D. Clostridium foetidum

Hint:

Think: "Proteus" produces pressure. Proteus ichthyosmius is linked to both gas (bloats) and fishy smells in evaporated milk.

Answer 1

The Correct Option is A

Step 1: Understanding the Concept:
"Bloats" or "swells" in canned evaporated milk refers to the bulging of the can ends due to internal gas pressure.
This gas is produced by the metabolic activity of bacteria that survived processing or entered via leaks.

Step 2: Detailed Explanation:
Various organisms can cause gas production in canned milk:
1.Proteus ichthyosmius: This organism is specifically associated with a type of spoilage in evaporated milk characterized by gas production (bloating) and a distinct "fishy" odor.
2.Comparison:
- Clostridium species usually cause "Hard Swells" with foul odors in low-acid foods, but Proteus is a common causative agent for specific "bloats" in dairy canning.
- Bacillus subtilis usually causes "Flat Sour" spoilage (acid but no gas).
- Staphylococcus epidermides is a common skin contaminant and typically does not survive sterilization or cause bloating in cans.
Therefore, Proteus ichthyosmius is the recognized causative agent for this specific defect.

Step 3: Final Answer:
Bloats in evaporated milk is caused by Proteus ichthyosmius.