Question

Preservation of food in common salt, edible oil and vinegar is called:

• A. Curing
• B. Pickling
• C. Salting
• D. Brining

Hint:

Pickling works through "Hurdel Technology." The salt, acid, and oil each act as an individual hurdle that spoilage bacteria cannot overcome.

Answer 1

The Correct Option is B

Concept: Food preservation methods often involve creating an environment that is hostile to spoilage microorganisms.

• Salting/Brining: Uses high osmotic pressure to dehydrate microbes.

• Vinegar: Lowers the pH to inhibit bacterial growth.

• Edible Oil: Creates an anaerobic (oxygen-free) seal to prevent mold growth.

Step 1: Analyzing the combination of ingredients.
The question specifies a combination of salt, oil, and vinegar. This multi-barrier approach is characteristic of traditional pickling.

Step 2: Defining Pickling.
Pickling is the process of preserving food by either anaerobic fermentation in brine or immersion in vinegar. In Asian and Indian styles, oil is often added as a top layer to prevent surface spoilage.

Step 3: Distinguishing other terms.
Curing is generally restricted to the preservation of meat and fish using salt and nitrates. Since the description covers a broad use of salt, oil, and acid, the term is Pickling. Final Answer: (B)