Which physical factor is listed as a cause of food deterioration?

Which physical factor is listed as a cause of food deterioration?

• A. Light
• B. Pressure
• C. Vacuum packaging
• D. Temperature

Answer: (A)

Light exposure drives photochemical reactions in foods. When light shines on food, it can initiate reactions that break down fats, degrade pigments, and reduce vitamins. These changes produce off-flavors, color loss, and nutrient deterioration, so light is a direct physical factor that causes deterioration. Temperature is also a major influence on shelf life, and vacuum packaging helps slow deterioration by reducing oxygen, while pressure isn’t typically a deterioration cause in normal storage. In this context, light best fits as the listed factor causing deterioration.

Light exposure drives photochemical reactions in foods. When light shines on food, it can initiate reactions that break down fats, degrade pigments, and reduce vitamins. These changes produce off-flavors, color loss, and nutrient deterioration, so light is a direct physical factor that causes deterioration. Temperature is also a major influence on shelf life, and vacuum packaging helps slow deterioration by reducing oxygen, while pressure isn’t typically a deterioration cause in normal storage. In this context, light best fits as the listed factor causing deterioration.