Food purchasing, processing, preservation and safety - JSS2 Home economics Past Questions and Answers - page 1

Food preservation is define as the process and practice of treating food to keep it in good condition and in a form as near as near as possible to its original state for a long time.

Food processing is defines as all those activities whereby crops and animal products in their natural state are changed or transformed into finished goods for future consumption. 

  1. Contamination: When buying food there is a risk of the food being contaminated with bacteria, viruses, parasites, chemical substances. This is a very significant concern when purchasing food.

2. Allergen: Food allergens such as wheat, peanuts, tree nuts, milk, eggs, fish, and shellfish can pose a serious risk to individuals with allergies.

3. Food-borne illnesses: Consuming contaminated or improperly handled food cab lead to food-borne illnesses, causing symptoms such as nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, fever and abdominal pain.

4. Food fraud: Food fraud involves the deliberate misrepresentation of food products for economic gain. Examples are; mislabeling, dilution, substitution, etc.

1. Size of the family: A family of three will definitely require less food than a family of ten.

2. Quality of food: Buying good quality foodstuff will help to save more money and prevent wastage.

3. Foods in season: They are foodstuffs that are in their harvest time. They are cheaper and at their best.

4. Money available: This determines the quality and quantity of food to buy and where to buy.

5. The family food needs: It is necessary to consider the nutritional needs of the family members, their food preferences, likes and dislikes

To preserve seasonal foods in and out of season especially fruits and vegetables.

2.To prevent scarcity.

3.To prevent food spoilage/damage.

4.To eliminate the purchase of foods when they are most expensive.