Question:

The extrinsic factors affecting growth of microorganisms are:

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To remember the difference: Intrinsic factors are "Inside" the food (pH, moisture), while Extrinsic factors are "External" (storage temp, humidity).
Updated On: Jul 4, 2026
  • pH, Temperature, Redox potential
  • Temperature, Relative humidity, gases in environment
  • Water activity, Temperature
  • pH, Temperature, water activity
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The Correct Option is B

Solution and Explanation

Concept: Factors affecting microbial growth in food are classified into two main categories.

• Intrinsic Factors: Properties of the food itself (pH, moisture, nutrients, redox potential).

• Extrinsic Factors: Properties of the storage environment.

• Understanding these helps in designing effective food preservation techniques.

Step 1: Defining Extrinsic Factors.
Extrinsic factors are the external environmental conditions where the food is kept. They are independent of the food's internal composition.

Step 2: Identifying the specific factors.
1. Temperature: Controls the rate of enzymatic reactions. 2. Relative Humidity: Affects the water activity on the food surface. 3. Atmospheric Gases: Presence of $O_2$ or $CO_2$ dictates which microbes can grow.

Step 3: Comparing with other options.
Options A, C, and D include pH, water activity, or redox potential. These are all Intrinsic factors. Final Answer: (B)
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