TED-Ed: Are food preservatives bad for you? - Eleanor Nelsen

The video explains how preservatives help keep food fresh by preventing spoilage caused by microbes and oxidation. It covers various preservation methods, including acidity, sugar, salt, nitrates, and antioxidants. The safety of these preservatives is discussed, along with potential health risks and alternatives like packaging techniques. Overall, preservatives are used in small, FDA-approved amounts to ensure food safety.

What are the two main factors that cause food to spoil?

• Time and storage

• Microbes and oxidation

• Light and air

• Temperature and humidity

How do acids help in preserving food?

• By adding flavor

• By reducing the food's color

• By unraveling enzymes needed by microbes

• By increasing the temperature

What is a potential health risk of using too much sugar and salt as preservatives?

• Decreased nutritional value

• Increased risk of heart disease

• Loss of food flavor

• Increased food spoilage

Which compound is known for its antioxidant activity without a smoky flavor?

• Propionic acid

• BHT

• Sorbic acid

• Benzoic acid

What is a common concern regarding sulfites in food preservation?

• They are ineffective as preservatives

• They cause food to spoil faster

• They may cause allergy symptoms

• They enhance food color