Question

Explain the term “rancidity”. Name and explain the type of chemical reactions responsible for causing rancidity.​

Answer 1

Explanation:

Rancidity can be defined as the chemical decomposition of fats and oils due to hydrolysis or auto-oxidation or microbial activity, producing aldehydes, hydroxyl acids, keta acids, and other compounds. This causes a considerable damage to the natural structure of fats and oils, producing undesirable odors, flavors and discoloration in the food containing them; making them unfit for consumption.

Factors responsible for causing rancidity are light, oxygen, trace elements such as iron and zinc, salt, water, bacteria, and molds etc.

Answer 2

When fats and oiLs are oxidised, the food becomes rancid i.e., their smell and taste changes. The type of chemical reaction is oxidation. Definition : Rancidity is the proces.s of slow oxidation of oil and fat present in the food materials resulting in the production of foul odour and taste in them.