Food preservation is the technique used to prevent food spoilage, food poisoning, and microbial contamination in food. It is an important process that allows us to store food for a longer time, protecting its taste, color, and nutritional value. There are various methods of food preservation, including physical methods such as freezing, refrigeration, canning, and dehydration, as well as chemical methods like preservation by common salt, sugar, oil, and vinegar, and heat treatment.
In the context of a class 8 curriculum, students would learn about the principles of food preservation, including the use of oil, vinegar, salt, and sugar, and the reasons for choosing a particular method for a specific food item. They would also learn about the importance of food preservation in preventing food waste and making seasonal food items available throughout the year.
Overall, food preservation is a crucial aspect of ensuring food safety and availability, and understanding its methods and principles is essential for students to appreciate the significance of preserving food for longer-term use.