MARATTO

article · Food Chemistry Advances

A review on food spoilage mechanisms, food borne diseases and commercial aspects of food preservation and processing

2024203 citationsOpen accessDelta State University

In plain language

Food spoilage stems from chemical alterations, enzymatic activity, and microbial growth, with specific nutrients directly governing which microorganisms can flourish. In particular, the degradation of proteins generates undesirable byproducts, while available minerals fulfil microbial nutritional needs. Contamination by bacterial, viral, and parasitic pathogens triggers dangerous foodborne diseases, underscoring the critical necessity of rigorous handling, storage, and preparation protocols. To counter these vulnerabilities, commercial food preservation and processing strategies increasingly combine conventional practices with advanced technological interventions. Modern approaches encompass innovative packaging, refined storage methods, nanotechnology, and smart packaging capable of real-time monitoring. By lengthening shelf life, improving safety, and curbing waste, these integrated solutions seek to bolster food availability, marketability, and long-term sustainability across the food industry.

Key takeaways

  • The specific nutrient and mineral composition of food determines which microbial species can proliferate.
  • Protein degradation within food yields undesirable compounds that harm quality and safety.
  • Preventing foodborne diseases caused by bacteria, viruses, and parasites relies on correct handling, storage, and preparation.
  • Commercial preservation is advancing through modern technologies such as nanotechnology and smart packaging for real-time monitoring.

Why it matters

Food spoilage and foodborne illness present severe risks to human health and lead to substantial food waste. Understanding the mechanisms behind degradation enables the development of more robust storage and processing interventions. Marrying reliable hygiene practices with advanced technological solutions safeguards the food supply, extends shelf life, and advances global food security and sustainability.

Commercialisation angle

Food processors, packaging manufacturers, and supply chain operators can apply modern techniques such as nanotechnology and real-time smart packaging to extend shelf life and curb waste. As a review examining established commercial strategies alongside emerging innovations, the referenced technologies range from applied and widely marketed preservation methods to near-market smart packaging systems being adopted across the sector.

AI-generated from the published abstract. Always read the original work before citing.

Abstract

• The nutrients in food determine the species of microorganisms that will grow in such foods. • Protein degradation leads to the production of undesirable products. • The mineral requirements of microorganisms are always made by the food. This review aims to provide a comprehensive acumen of food spoilage mechanisms, foodborne diseases, and the commercial dimensions of food preservation and processing. It begins with an exploration of the processes contributing to food degradation, such as enzymatic reactions, microbial growth, and chemical changes, emphasizing their impact on food safety and quality. The review highlights the dangers posed by foodborne diseases caused by pathogens, including bacteria, viruses, and parasites, and stresses the importance of proper handling, storage, and preparation techniques to mitigate these risks. Key findings reveal the evolving commercial strategies in food preservation and processing, including innovative packaging solutions, advanced storage methods, and state-of-the-art technologies like nanotechnology and smart packaging. These advancements not only extend shelf life but also enhance safety and marketability. Food preservation remains an essential practice to ensure food availability, safety, and quality in a dynamic world. Integrating traditional methods with modern technologies offers promising solutions to address global challenges such as food security, waste reduction, and sustainability. Emerging innovations, such as nanotechnology and real-time monitoring through smart packaging, present exciting opportunities for reducing waste and improving safety, ultimately contributing to a sustainable and efficient food industry.

Research topics

  • Food Safety and Hygiene
  • Meat and Animal Product Quality
  • Listeria monocytogenes in Food Safety

Sustainable Development Goals

Read the original research

This page summarises published work. The authoritative version sits with the publisher.

DOI: 10.1016/j.focha.2024.100852

Is something wrong with this record? Report it or request removal.

Discussion

Discuss this research

Have you built on this work, tried to replicate it, or seen it applied in practice? Share what you know. Verified researchers and MARATTO™ domain experts can open a discussion, and any member can reply. Contributions are reviewed before they appear.

No discussion yet. Open the first thread.