Which of the following gas causes rancidity in food products?

Options

A. Oxygen
B. Hydrogen
C. Nitrogen
D. Carbon Monoxide

Answer

A

Explanation

Rancidification is the complete or incomplete oxidation or hydrolysis of fats and oils when exposed to air, light, or moisture or by bacterial action, resulting in an unpleasant taste and odor. Oxidative rancidity is associated with the degradation by oxygen in the air. The double bonds of unsaturated fatty acid can be cleaved by free-radical reactions involving molecular oxygen. Thisreaction causes the release of malodorous and highly volatile aldehydes and ketones.