Week # 2 Grade 11 CSEC
Food and Nutrition
Definition of Food Spoilage and Food Contamination
Food Spoilage
Food spoilage is the process by which food deteriorates and becomes unfit for consumption.
It involves changes in taste, smell, appearance, and texture due to microbial, chemical, or physical
activity.
Food Contamination
Food contamination refers to the presence of harmful substances in food that can cause illness or
injury.
It can occur at any stage—production, processing, transport, or preparation—and includes:
o Biological: bacteria, viruses, parasites
o Chemical: pesticides, cleaning agents
o Physical: glass, metal, plastic fragments
Factors That Contribute to Spoilage and Contamination
Intrinsic Factors (within the food)
Moisture content: High water activity promotes microbial growth
pH level: Acidic foods spoil slower; neutral pH favors bacteria
Nutrient composition: Rich foods (like meat) spoil faster
Natural enzymes: Can break down food post-harvest
Extrinsic Factors (external conditions)
Temperature: Warm conditions accelerate spoilage
Oxygen exposure: Promotes oxidation and microbial growth
Time: Longer storage increases risk
Handling & hygiene: Poor practices introduce contaminants
Descriptions of Spoilage Types
Type Description
Microb Caused by bacteria, yeasts, molds; leads to souring, slime, gas, discoloration
Enzymatic Natural enzymes cause browning, softening, flavor changes (e.g., apples browning)
Chemical Oxidation of fats/oils causes rancidity and off-flavors
Physical Damage during transport or storage (e.g., bruised fruits, cracked eggs)
Signs of Food Spoilage
Recognizing spoilage helps prevent foodborne illness:
Off odors: Sour, rancid, or putrid smells (e.g., spoiled milk or meat)
Color changes: Browning, graying, or unusual discoloration
Texture changes: Slimy, mushy, or overly soft consistency
Surface growth: Mold, fuzz, or slime on food
Cloudy liquids: In canned or jarred foods
Taste changes: Bitter, sour, or metallic flavors
END OF WEEK 2 NOTES