Vinegar acts as a reducing agent, preventing oxidation of food.
C
Vinegar provides an acidic environment that inhibits microbial growth.
D
Vinegar catalyzes the polymerization of food proteins, enhancing preservation.
Verified step by step guidance
1
Understand that vinegar is primarily composed of acetic acid, which is a weak organic acid.
Recognize that the acidity of vinegar creates an environment with a low pH.
Learn that many microorganisms, such as bacteria and fungi, cannot survive or grow in highly acidic environments.
Realize that by inhibiting microbial growth, vinegar effectively preserves food by preventing spoilage.
Conclude that the primary role of vinegar in food preservation is to provide an acidic environment that inhibits the growth of spoilage-causing microorganisms.