Step 1: Understanding the Concept:
Membrane filtration is a physical separation method that uses a semi-permeable membrane to separate particles or solutes from a liquid under pressure.
Step 2: Detailed Explanation:
Let us evaluate each statement:
- Statement (A) is correct: It separates suspended solids or particulate matter (referred to as soils) from liquid streams.
- Statement (B) is correct: It utilizes a physical barrier, such as a micro-porous membrane or porous medium, to selectively block particles based on size.
- Statement (C) is correct: It is widely used to clarify fruit juices (by removing suspended starch or pectin) and remove microorganisms (yeasts and bacteria), enabling cold pasteurization.
- Statement (D) is incorrect: Membrane filtration is actually very commonly used in the processing of fruit juices, wine, and beer for clarification and sterile filtration.
Thus, only statements (A), (B), and (C) are correct.
Step 3: Final Answer:
This combination corresponds to Option (B).