Question

Why is dehydration a good way to preserve food?

Answer 1

Dehydration is a good method of food preservation as drying inhibits the growth of microorganisms through the removal of water.

Explanation:

Enzymatic and or microbial activity within the foods are the major cause of food spoilage. Microorganisms like bacteria, yeasts and molds require a significant amount of moisture to grow and cause spoilage. Reducing the moisture content not only controls the growth of microorganisms but also slows down enzymatic reactions within food. The combination of these events help to prevent spoilage in dehydrated foods.

Traditionally water is removed from food items through evaporation by air drying, sun drying, smoking or wind drying. Electric food dehydrators and freeze drying are modern methods and ensure more consistent results.

Food preservation by dehydration has been used as early as 12,000 BC by modern Middle East n Asia regions.