Food Processing

Abstract

Food science and technology is the science that deals with the physical, biological and chemical processes relevant to the processing of food and food ingredients. The goal is to research, develop and optimise technical procedures based on natural and engineering sciences as well as socioeconomic factors in order to provide high-quality and safe food for human consumption. Food processing refers to the conversion/transformation of raw materials to a safe food product. This chapter introduces the physical, chemical and biological unit operations typically used in food processing to ensure food safety and quality. The influence of intrinsic as well as extrinsic parameters on microbial growth behaviour are highlighted and examples of important factors that need to be considered during food processing are introduced (water activity, enzyme activity, lipid oxidation). At the end of the chapter, also strategies for new product developments are presented.