Question

If the water activity of food is 0.5 to 0.6, then:
A. Enzymatic activity is completely ceased
B. No bacterial activity takes place
C. No non-enzymatic browning activity
D. No mold growth on food
E. Lipid does not oxidise
Choose the correct answer from the options given below:

• A. D, E Only
• B. B, E Only
• C. B, D Only
• D. C, B Only

Hint:

Water activity requirements:
Bacteria: a\(_w\) \(>\) 0.9.
Molds: a\(_w\) \(>\) 0.7.
Yeasts: a\(_w\) \(>\) 0.8.

Answer 1

The Correct Option is C

Step 1: Understanding the Concept:
Water activity (a\(_w\)) is a measure of available water in food.
Different microorganisms and reactions have specific water activity requirements.

Step 2: Key Formula or Approach:
No specific formula.
Need to know the water activity requirements for various reactions.

Step 3: Detailed Explanation:
At water activity 0.5 to 0.6:
Bacteria generally require a\(_w\) \(>\) 0.9, so no bacterial growth.
Molds generally require a\(_w\) \(>\) 0.7, so no mold growth.
Enzymatic activity may still occur at lower a\(_w\).
Non-enzymatic browning (Maillard reaction) occurs at low a\(_w\).
Lipid oxidation can still occur.
Thus, B and D are correct.

Step 4: Final Answer:
The correct statements are B and D.
Hence, the correct option is (C).