Step 1: Understanding the Concept:
Salting is a critical step in cheese making. Salt-in-Moisture (S/M) refers to the concentration of salt in the water phase of the cheese, which is what microbes actually "feel."
Step 2: Detailed Explanation:
- Statement (A): Salt causes the curd to shrink (syneresis), aiding in final whey expulsion (drainage). It also interacts with casein to change how much water the protein can hold (hydration). Correct.
- Statement (B): While salt imparts taste and enhances flavor, it decreases water activity ($a_{w}$). Salt binds to water molecules, making them unavailable for microbial growth. Increasing water activity would promote spoilage, which is the opposite of salt's preservative role. Thus, (B) is incorrect.
- Statement (C): High S/M levels can inhibit residual rennet and are primary tools to stop the growth of spoilage bacteria and pathogens. Correct.
- Statement (D): Salt slows down the starter culture, preventing them from turning all residual lactose into acid too quickly, thus controlling pH and ripening rate. Correct.
The question asks for the incorrect answer. Only statement (B) contains a scientific error (regarding water activity).
Step 3: Final Answer: (2) (B) only.