Packets of potato chips are usually flushed with which one of the foll

Packets of potato chips are usually flushed with which one of the following gases to prevent rancidity?

Carbon dioxide

Hydrogen

Nitrogen

Oxygen

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This question was previously asked in

UPSC CAPF – 2021

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The correct answer is C) Nitrogen.

Packets of potato chips and other similar snacks contain fats and oils. These fats and oils can undergo oxidation when exposed to oxygen in the air, leading to rancidity, which results in unpleasant smells and flavors. To prevent this, the air inside the packets is replaced with an inert gas, most commonly nitrogen. Nitrogen is chosen because it is readily available, inexpensive, and does not react with the food components. This flushing process removes oxygen, significantly slowing down the oxidation process and preventing rancidity, thus extending the shelf life of the product.

This technique is an example of modified atmosphere packaging (MAP), where the gaseous atmosphere surrounding the food is altered to improve preservation. Other gases like carbon dioxide are also sometimes used in food packaging, often in combination with nitrogen.

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