What reproduces or “grows” in packaging that is clear, light, and open and can be prevented by keeping the sample in the dark and at low temperatures (<4°C, but above freezing)?

Prepare for the Bioenvironmental Engineering Block 9 Exam with our interactive quiz. Utilize multiple choice questions, hints, and explanations to master the material and excel in your test!

Multiple Choice

What reproduces or “grows” in packaging that is clear, light, and open and can be prevented by keeping the sample in the dark and at low temperatures (<4°C, but above freezing)?

Explanation:
Growth of living contaminants in packaging is driven by environmental conditions like light, temperature, and exposure to air. Clear packaging lets light through, which can enable photosynthetic organisms to proliferate, but it’s not just algae that can grow there—bacteria and fungi can also take advantage of open, illuminated conditions. Keeping the sample dark and refrigerated slows or stops most microbial growth overall, since darkness stops photosynthesis (limiting algae) and cold temperatures slow metabolic rates for many bacteria and fungi. Because the packaging scenario could allow any type of microorganism to contaminate and reproduce, the broad category that covers all these possibilities is the best fit.

Growth of living contaminants in packaging is driven by environmental conditions like light, temperature, and exposure to air. Clear packaging lets light through, which can enable photosynthetic organisms to proliferate, but it’s not just algae that can grow there—bacteria and fungi can also take advantage of open, illuminated conditions. Keeping the sample dark and refrigerated slows or stops most microbial growth overall, since darkness stops photosynthesis (limiting algae) and cold temperatures slow metabolic rates for many bacteria and fungi. Because the packaging scenario could allow any type of microorganism to contaminate and reproduce, the broad category that covers all these possibilities is the best fit.

Subscribe

Get the latest from Passetra

You can unsubscribe at any time. Read our privacy policy